VA PTA Student Citizenship Essay:  The theme for the 2008-09 Citizenship Essay program is "Our Earth - Our Future." This Essay Project allows students to express their views and opinions on "Character or Citizenship." The program is open to 6th-12th grade students with savings bonds up to $1000 being awarded to the state 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners for middle school and high school divisions. Four district division winners will be honored at the 2009 District Annual Meeting. Download the essay application and requirements for each division level. Applications deadline to District Director is Feb. 2, 2009. Please forward application information on to your school’s principal, teachers, counselors, and career center.

VA PTA Scholarship Program:  The Virginia PTA offers scholarships to graduating high school students planning to enter teaching or other youth-serving professions in Virginia and the deadline for submission to the VA PTA state office is March 2, 2009. There are two $1200 special scholarships with the remaining scholarships being $1000. Download the scholarship application and requirements. Please forward application information on to your school’s principal, teachers, counselors, and high school career center.