Parents of the year
For Robert Martínez, a Dallas parent of four children, the Parents Step Ahead parent-education program was not merely an opportunity to gain valuable knowledge about important child-rearing topics. In his words, it “I felt changed inside” and it made me feel prouder as a parent.
Every year, PSA honors parents and guardians who have taken a proactive approach to their child’s educational and professional development. During an Awards Celebration Dinner each December, PSA recognizes outstanding parents who participated in any PSA school program during the year, and who are role models in their community.
“I was so moved by the wonderful backgrounds of all the recipients and was very honored to be included in such a diverse and giving group of parents, grandparents, brothers and sisters who have all taken on the great responsibility of caring for, loving and raising the youth of tomorrow.”
Cathryn Record-Horn, POY Winner and Teacher, E.M. Daggett Elementary (FWISD)
To qualify for the POY Award, parents or guardians must have attended one of the PSA seminars in the Dallas, Fort Worth, Irving, Garland, Richardson, or San Antonio areas during the school year. Parents are nominated by their school. Those who wish to be considered for the POY must write an essay about the importance of parental involvement. Their child must also submit an essay about why his/her parent should be selected as the POY.
A panel of judges comprising of local and national community and corporate leaders selects the winners. Honorees receive an award, a computer system, other gifts and the opportunity to speak with local and national community and corporate leaders about the importance of education during the POYAwards celebration.
“Parents who have made such an effort to ensure a better future for their children – often at great personal sacrifice – should be recognized every day of their lives,” Lupita Colmenero, Founder of PSA. “Parents Step Ahead is proud to give them the recognition they deserve for the example they set for their children and the community.”
Through its programs, Parents Step Ahead has honored more than 55 parents from schools in Dallas, Fort Worth, Garland, Irving, Richardson, Birdville, and Northside Independent School District in San Antonio. Thanks to the generous support of corporations and community leaders, Parents Step Ahead is able to honor these parents who have gone above and beyond for their kids and who’s hard work would otherwise go unrecognized.