What the Parent Leadership Class Meant to Me

by Patricia Crutchfield (PALTA Class 4)

This class was very exciting and interesting. I enjoyed coming to class and learning about the various issues that parents face in their communities. This class allowed me to connect with other parents from different neighborhoods to discuss the problems that plague our society. I realized that, even though we are from different neighborhoods, we have similar problems — the problems of drugs, low graduation rates, unemployment, lack of parental guidance, gangs, high crime rates and the breakdown of the family unit. I was able to share my experience with parents about these issues as well as listen to other parents' experiences. It allowed me to see that we all share a common bond as parents to try to make the world a better place by getting involved. 

This class reminded me that things don't change unless we make them change. We have to be involved with our local and state government by volunteering at our schools, churches, and any other organization that will help us resolve these issues. This class reminded me that as parents we need to research issues and candidates that are up for elections and then vote for candidates and issues that will help our communities be safe and prosperous. We must do this for our children. They are our future and we are their guardian angels. We must protect their future because they don't get to vote — but we can vote for them. It reminded me of the past generation that provided for us. Now it is our turn to do the same for our children. We can do that if we are involved in the process. This class has inspired me to go out  and do the work that needs to be done.

I feel truly blessed to be a part of this class because it made me a better citizen. It made me want to be involved in making changes to our education system, our government and our community. It gave me the tools to let my voice be heard in the decision-making process. It motivated me to write my congressman, senator, and governor about issues that need to be addressed or changed. It showed me how to present myself in a public forum. It inspired me to be an activist for issues that concern me as well as the community — such issues as health care, education reform, unemployment, crime rates, gangs, and abuse of drugs.

I would recommend this class to all parents so that they can help make changes that will affect their children's lives in a positive way, as well as their own lives. As a parent you need to be involved in your community, your school, your church, and your local and state government. These organizations have a great impact on your life, as well as your child's life. These organizations will determine how you live or how you don't live. The choice is yours. Please make the choice to be involved in your child's life and the life of your community. Remember that strong communities are communities with strong family values. What do you value?