Project Summary

PLTI Alumni and over 20 partners will build on our "community conversations" to engage parents as true partners with the schools. We will expand our network, creating opportunities to share resources and reach out across the community to develop better educational outcomes for all children.

About me

4) I came to the United States in 1951 as a refugee. My family spoke little English during our first years here. I was the only immigrant in my classes throughout school in New Jersey. We became proud citizens together. My father worked two jobs to buy a home and save for his five children's college. All are college graduates. A good education was the way for immigrants to succeed, but children from all backgrounds should have this opportunity. Through my jobs in federal, state or local governments, I worked with people from all backgrounds. I also contributed hundreds of community service hours each year. Recently, I established a scholarship at UCONN for a Stamford student and established an initiative, "Dare to Dream" for the Parent Teacher Organization at my children's high school where I served on the board. I was named volunteer of the year by the Stamford Museum and recognized by the Volunteer Center. I developed educational programs for schools and served as director for a non-profit organization that promotes understanding about cultural diversity and contributions of America's ethnic minorities. I now serve as the Stamford coordinator of PLTI, a civic initiative of CT Commission on Children. As a volunteer for 28 years in Stamford schools and ethnically diverse community groups, I have good relationships with many who support this effort to engage new parents and create a resource network. PLTI alumni and over 20 community partners began the work this year.