2010 National Legislative Conference: Shirley Igo Advocate of the Year Award

In 2008, the PTA marked the passing of one of its greatest child advocate leaders, former National PTA President Shirley Igo (2001-2003). Shirley was a model of public service and volunteerism throughout her life. She was an impassioned and compassionate leader, dedicated to moving PTA forward and committed to ensuring that others would follow. Formerly PTA’s designated federal advocate on Capitol Hill, Igo ensured that PTA had a voice in federal legislation. In 2001, Shirley lobbied Congre

ss to include PTA’s definition of parent involvement, as well as provisions for parent participation, in the reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act—No Child Left Behind Act (ESEA-NCLB). In 2003, Igo led the way in lobbying for mandatory funding for the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and ESEA-NCLB, applauding parent involvement provisions but expressing concern about ESEA-NCLB’s strong emphasis on testing as the primary tool for assessing school performance.

To honor Shirley, PTA presents an annual award to one individual who best exemplifies the qualities that made Shirley a true advocate for all children. The person chosen to receive this award will receive an all-expense paid* trip to the 2010 Legislative Conference and will be recognized at an awards ceremony on Capitol Hill.

The deadline for nominations is December 4, 2009. Thank you in advance for your submissions.

* Expenses include and are limited to round-trip airfare, hotel accommodations, ground transportation, conference registration and materials, and per-diem food expenses.

Additional Resources

Shirley Igo Advocate of the Year Criteria and Nomination Form
Nominating form and award criteria for Igo award