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PTA is not only about fun-runs and bake-sales. PTA is the oldest and largest volunteer child advocacy association in the United States. Founded in 1897, PTA has a long, successful history of influencing federal policy to promote the education, health and well-being of all children—resulting in kindergarten classes, child labor laws, school lunch programs, a juvenile justice system, and strengthened parent-teacher relationships.
What is Advocacy?
In the context of PTA, advocacy is supporting and speaking up for children—in schools, in communities, and before government bodies and other organizations that make decisions affecting children. To learn more about PTA’s advocacy history, resources and ideas for activism, read Advocate With PTA (PDF).
We encourage everyone to learn about our legislative priorities below and find out more ways to get involved, by visiting PTA Takes Action. Washington lawmakers make important decisions that affect the health, welfare, safety, and educational opportunities for every child across the state.
Legislative Platform
The Washington State PTA legislative platform is a two-year platform to mirror the Washington state legislative cycle. On the even-numbered years, the new platform is voted on by members at the legislative assembly in the fall. The top five issues become our short-term platform and consist of our priority issues when advocating throughout the year. Other issues are placed on an “also supported” list. During the odd-numbered years, members vote to amend current issues or to add new, emerging issues to the also supported list.
Top 5 Legislative Priorities
Social Emotional Learning
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School Construction and Simple Majority for Bonds
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Prevent Gun Violence
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Strategies to Address the Teacher Shortage
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Strategic K-12 Investments to Close Gaps
WSPTA Supported Issues
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Best Practices for School Meals (Lunch)
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Best Practices for School Recess
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Engaging Families in Student Success
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Fund Paraeducator Training
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Increase Access to High-Quality Preschool
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Raise the Age of Tobacco and Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems to 21
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Safe School Plans and Emergency Preparedness
1.
Sign up for the PTA Takes Action Network and respond to action alerts to reach your legislators on important issues and legislation.
2.
Attend district school board meetings. Lake Steven’s School board information and calendar can be viewed here.
3.
Stay informed about the Washington State PTA’s advocacy for legislative priorities and learn how to get more involved.
4.
Subscribe to WSPTA’s Action Network Group to receive action alerts and informational broadcasts during the Washington State Legislative Sessions.
5.
Visit The Action Network website for tools to help organize a cause.
6.
Vote!