[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 156 (2010), Part 4] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page 4560] [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]HONORING FLORIDA PARENT TEACHER ASSOCIATION (PTA) ______ HON. KENDRICK B. MEEK of florida in the house of representatives Monday, March 22, 2010 Mr. MEEK of Florida. Madam Speaker, today I rise to recognize and congratulate Florida Parent Teacher Association, PTA on receiving the 2010 Outstanding Advocacy Awards. Their advocacy efforts at state, local and individual levels were recognized because of their dedication, leadership and sustained efforts to positively affect child related policy, regulation and legislation. This association serves a critical role in helping to provide the best possible educational environment for our students throughout Florida. As the largest volunteer child advocacy association in the nation, the PTA reminds our country of its obligations to children and provides parents and families with a powerful voice to speak on behalf of every child while providing the best tools for parents to help their children be successful students. It is important to recognize that Florida PTA is being honored for their efforts while facing proposed education budget cuts. The state PTA formed a coalition with major education groups during these efforts. Unfortunately, Florida ranks near the bottom in the country in school funding. But, Florida PTA's initiatives created sustained advocacy and generated new-found enthusiasm for parents and local PTAs to work together for education funding for Florida children. Advocates sent more than 3,000 letters of protest to the Florida Governor and state legislators, held regular conference calls with regional and local PTAs, developed an advocacy toolkit, and held one of the largest rallies at the state Capitol steps. As a result of Florida's PTA efforts, Florida legislators did not reduce education funding as proposed. Madam Speaker, please join me in congratulating Florida Parent Teacher Association for their outstanding achievement. The dedicated involvement from parents throughout Florida reflects a strong commitment to public education and community service. I offer my strong support for Florida PTA and their dedicated volunteers. ____________________