Bite-Sized: Insights from New York State PTA

Are you ready to be inspired? In this episode, Yvonne Johnson shares her journey from local PTA leader to the national stage, highlighting lessons on advocacy, leadership, and resilience that apply to all PTA volunteers and leaders. Recorded on March 24, 2026. Main Topics: Yvonne Johnson's leadership journey and breakthroughs in advocacy The importance of building trust and community in PTA Ho...

Summary This episode explores the collaboration between school boards, BOCES, and PTAs, highlighting real stories, challenges, and strategies for effective teamwork in education. Guest Catherine Romano shares insights from decades of experience, emphasizing communication, trust, and community engagement. Keywords PTA, school boards, BOCES, education collaboration, community engagement, school lead...

This episode was recorded live at the NYS PTA Convention in Niagara Falls, NY on Sunday, November 16, 2025. Includes your podcast hosts Robin Brumfield, Kathleen McEnroe, Mary Sotomayor & Sonya Verrillo as well as panelists Brenda Cardoza and Maria Sanders. Ideas were also shared by PTA leaders who attended the workshop/recording. Summary: This conversation explores the multifaceted roles and...

In this episode of Bite Size Insights, the hosts welcome long-time NYS PTA leader & consultant Jackie Wilson, to discuss the realities of PTA life, sharing personal stories of successes, failures, and the importance of community involvement. They emphasize the need for training, mentorship, and effective communication to navigate the challenges faced by PTAs. The conversation highlights the si...

Recorded on September 19, 2025 by Mary Sotomayor, Robin Brumfield, Kathleen McEnroe, Sonya Verrillo and NYS PTA President Patty Frazier. This bonus episode of Bite Size Insights from New York State PTA provides an exclusive preview of the 2025 New York State PTA Convention being held on November 14-16, 2025 in Niagara Falls, NY, featuring discussions on the importance of connection, leadership, an...

In this episode of Bite-Sized Insights from NYS PTA , Brenda Cardoza, New York State PTA Diversity Coordinator, joins the Leadership Development Team to explore the realities of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in today’s school communities. Through personal stories and honest reflections, they discuss the role of empathy, advocacy, and accessibility in creating a welcoming environment for e...

In our very first episode of Bite-Sized Insights from NYS PTA , meet the Leadership Development Team and hear the stories that brought us to PTA leadership — the wins, the challenges, and the “aha” moments that keep us showing up for our schools and communities. Whether you’re a new PTA leader or a seasoned volunteer, this episode sets the stage for what’s ahead: candid conversations , leadership...

Find out what Bite-Sized: Insights from New York State PTA is all about! Hosts Mary Sotomayor, Kathleen McEnroe, Sonya Verrillo and Robin Brumfield give listeners a preview of what they can expect when they tune into NYS PTA's new podcast series.