Parents and guardians are welcome to join the Lawton Parent Teacher Association Council (LPTAC), a nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the public education of local students.

This year, President Erica Mendez says the group’s goal is to collaborate with other community organizations to bring more awareness to student advocacy, bullying prevention and parent involvement within Lawton Public Schools.

“LPTAC is a wonderful way to give back to LPS,” Mendez said. “It is more than popcorn and pickle Fridays or selling candy bars; it’s advocating and being a voice for a child when no one else can speak up for what is right.

“We need parents to speak up against over-testing, budget cuts and low teacher salaries.”

Mendez and her council hope to reach a goal of recruiting 1,000 citizens for one hour of LPTAC service each during the coming school year. They have partnered with district leadership to discuss ways to promote this initiative, Mendez said, and are also furthering efforts to promote bullying awareness with the “NO BULLYing” campaign.

“We strive to have a voice – or membership – for every child enrolled in Lawton Public Schools,” Mendez explained.

Upcoming fundraising events will include a summer community fair and an autumn banquet, with details to be announced. Organizational meetings will be scheduled quarterly at the Douglass Learning Center and those interested in joining may contact Mendez at Erica.LPTAC@gmail.com or visit their home school office.

For updates or additional information, follow the “Lawton PTA Council” page on Facebook.