Community glows bright as mayors, schools and parents as teachers celebrate National PAT Day

WEIMAR & SCHULENBURG — Parents as Teachers of Rural South-Central Texas (PAT) kicked off its annual fundraising season on National PAT Day (Nov. 8) by unveiling this year’s radiant theme: “Neon Lights: Illuminating Young Minds.”

The neon-inspired celebration shines a bright spotlight on PAT’s mission to guide and support families during their child’s earliest years—empowering parents as their child’s first and most influential teacher and helping build strong, bright futures for young learners across our community.

Lighting up in support, local schools wore glowing neon colors to honor the occasion, symbolizing the brightness, promise, and potential of early childhood learning. Their participation also helped raise awareness of PAT’s impactful work in supporting children and families from birth to age five.

PAT extends heartfelt gratitude to area schools and community partners for joining this powerful kickoff. In recognition of PAT’s ongoing contributions, Weimar Mayor Pro Tem Carlton Tucker and Schulenburg Mayor Connie Koopmann each issued proclamations declaring National PAT Day, further spotlighting the importance of early childhood support in our rural communities.

Since its founding in 2002, PAT has served more than 881 families and 1,360 children, providing parents with guidance, resources, and support to help give their children the strongest possible start in life.

To support PAT’s mission or learn more about the upcoming Neon Lights Gala Fundraiser, including ticket purchases and donation opportunities, visit: www. givebutter.com/PATNEONLIGHTS2026 Families with children aged five and under who are interested in enrolling in PAT—or community members seeking more information—may contact the PAT office at (979) 7436584 or email josue@swpat. org or karen@sw-pat. org.