Superintendent Barge and Georgia PTA Announce
the 2014 Georgia Parent Leadership Awards
January 8, 2014 – The Georgia Department of Education (GaDOE) and the Georgia Parent
Teacher Association (GA PTA) are recognizing six parents from across the state with the 2014
Georgia Parent Leadership Award. Mrs. Laura Shyman representing Tapp Middle School in
Cobb County Schools was chosen to receive the award.
The award was created by GaDOE and GA PTA to recognize parents for their outstanding leadership
in creating a foundation of support for student achievement and success. Research shows that parent
engagement makes a difference in student achievement - no matter the age of the child.
“We know that when parents are actively engaged in their child’s education that students do better in
school and are more successful in future grades,” said State School Superintendent Dr. John Barge.
“I sincerely appreciate these parents for their leadership and involvement in the education of the
students in their communities.”
“It is an undisputed fact that academic achievement increases for children who are the product of
parents engaged in their lives,” said Rita Erves, Georgia PTA President. “I applaud the efforts of the
2014 Georgia Parent Leadership Award recipients. These parents recognize that there is absolutely
nothing that can replace the meaningful interaction with their children.”
Mrs. Shyman received the honor during a ceremony on Saturday, January 11, 2014 during the 2014
Georgia Family Engagement Conference in front of 1,000 registered parents and educators.
Winners of the Georgia Parent Leadership Award have opportunities throughout the year to share
their story by promoting and assisting parent engagement activities at the state level.
Pictured: Michelle Sandrock, GaDOE; Laura Shyman, Tapp Middle School Recipient; Rita Erves GA PTA President