September 13, 2023 – California State PTA is honoring its advocacy origins. Like the PTA founders who first met over 125 years ago to discuss issues affecting children, PTA representatives from throughout the state of California recently met to discuss issues affecting children and families. The organization adopted advocacy goals ranging from expanding civic engagement to enacting common sense gun control to safeguarding the well-being of children and families.

Kathleen Fay, California State PTA Legislation Director for the 2023-2025 term, said “With these forward-looking advocacy goals in place, the association is poised to make a positive difference in the lives of children and families, whether it be promoting informed family engagement or providing support for vulnerable youth.”

At the quarterly meeting of the state’s Board of Managers, leaders from throughout California voted to advocate for legislation, policies, and measures that:

• safeguard the health, safety, welfare, culture, and well-being of children and families, including mental health services and support for vulnerable youth;
• promote evidence-based, informed family engagement;
• expand civic engagement, learning, and participation;
• enact common sense gun control.

In addition, the advocacy goals include providing programs, expertise, and resources to support and expand PTA advocacy at the local level.

Affirming the state organization’s dedication to local PTA leaders, Shereen Walter, California State PTA President for the 2023-2025 term, said “California State PTA reaffirms its commitment to support and enhance the advocacy efforts of our local leaders. Recognizing the unique needs and challenges faced by communities across the state, the association aims to empower local PTAs with the tools and knowledge needed to effectively advocate for positive change within their respective regions.”

About California State PTA:

California State PTA connects families, schools, and communities. We are part of the foundation of our public education system and a trusted messenger to millions of members, parents, families, educators, and allied agencies throughout the state. PTA is the nation’s largest volunteer-led child advocacy association working to drive improvements in the education, health, and well-being of all children and families.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Barbara Smith
Vice President for Communications
bsmith@capta.org

September 12, 2023 – SACRAMENTO, CA – California State PTA, the state’s oldest and largest child advocacy organization, is looking to the future. Anticipating new challenges and opportunities in the years ahead, the statewide leadership has adopted goals for more effectively helping the 3000-plus local PTAs support all the children, families, and schools in their communities.
Shereen Walter, California State PTA President for the 2023-2025 term, explained that the new goals include strategic planning to align the PTA’s vision with emerging trends, technologies, and educational needs.

“Our association aims to continue its leadership as we adapt parental involvement and advocacy to fit the evolving landscape of education,” Walter said. “We are committed to supporting educational excellence and the welfare of all children and families by strengthening PTA’s impact through strategic partnerships, innovative advocacy campaigns, and data-driven initiatives.”
Walter added that California State PTA is also committed to cultivating an inclusive organization that recognizes the diverse communities its local associations serve. “Everyone’s voice needs to be heard and valued.”

Every PTA is a membership organization. PTA thus is focused on sustaining an outstanding membership base and expanding its reach throughout the state.
“Our membership is our strength,” said Heather Ippolito, California State PTA President-Elect. “To keep attracting and retaining a diverse community of individuals, and helping our local PTAs to do the same, we will continue looking for ways to enhance member benefits, connect people throughout the state, and provide helpful content and training to our local leaders. Our goal is to train, develop, and support a robust network of leaders who will carry the work of PTA forward for decades to come.”
Through collaborative efforts and a shared commitment to education, California State PTA is poised to make a lasting impact in the lives of children and families across the state.

About California State PTA:

California State PTA connects families, schools, and communities. We are part of the foundation of our public education system and a trusted messenger to millions of members, parents, families, educators, and allied agencies throughout the state. PTA is the nation’s largest volunteer-led child advocacy association working to drive improvements in the education, health, and well-being of all children and families.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Barbara Smith
Vice President for Communications
bsmith@capta.org

July 5, 2023 – SACRAMENTO, CA – Shereen Walter, a passionate advocate for all children and families, began her term as California State PTA President on July 1, 2023. Walter was elected to the 2023-25 term of office. In her new role, she will chair the Board of Directors and be the Chief Executive Officer of the California State PTA. Walter now leads the largest volunteer-led child advocacy association in California as it strives to improve the health, safety, education, and welfare of the state’s nine million children.

A resident of Orange County and mother of three adult children, Walter has volunteered in various PTA roles for over twenty years. Her service with PTA has included roles at the local, regional, and state levels, including a local PTA unit president, council treasurer, and district Vice President for Legislative Advocacy, and at the state as Vice President for Health and Community Concerns, Director of Legislation, and President-Elect.

“I can’t think of anything more important than advocating for the health, safety, and education of all of our children,” said Walter. “We know that when families and schools work together, all children benefit. I look forward to leading this organization which is dedicated to championing the rights and needs of children and families in California.”

Walter’s work with PTA has been focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion, advocating for California’s most vulnerable children and promoting mental health awareness. During her two-year term as president, she hopes to support and encourage new leaders, expand its membership, and advocate at all levels for every child with the largest, most inclusive voice possible.

“Shereen brings a wealth of experience to the role of President and CEO of the California State PTA,” said Josiah Kitonga, Managing Director of California State PTA. “I’m confident her experience, dedication, and commitment to the children and families of California will take us to the next level of growth and impact for the organization.”

Walter has a bachelor’s degree in geophysical engineering and an MBA from the University of California, Irvine. In addition to her volunteer role, she is a small business owner and is the president of a local non-profit youth football club.

Walter looks forward to leading an outstanding Board of Directors during the 2023–2025 term:

• Shereen Walter, President
• Heather Ippolito, President-elect (2025-27)
• Laura Hawk-Loya, Vice President for Leadership Services
• Ellen Torres, Vice President for Membership Services
• Barbara Smith, Vice President for Communications
• Will Stanford, Vice President for Convention
• Houri Khatchadorian, Vice President for Health & Community Concerns
• Jesus Holguin, Vice President for Education
• Anita Avrick, Vice President for Family Engagement
• Kathleen Fay, Director of Legislation
• Leslie Powell, Secretary
• Linda Pfeifer, Treasurer
• Becca Marks-Anderson, Parliamentarian
• Melanie Lucas, Chair of the District Presidents
• Josiah Kitonga, Managing Director

###

About California State PTA: California State PTA connects families, schools, and communities. We are part of the foundation of our public education system and a trusted messenger to millions of members, parents, families, educators, and allied agencies throughout the state. PTA is the nation’s largest volunteer-led child advocacy association working to drive improvements in the education, health, and well-being of all children and families.

Media Contacts:
Josiah Kitonga, Managing Director
(916) 465-8600
jkitonga@capta.org

Barbara Smith, Vice President for Communications
(213) 393-6285
bsmith@capta.org

June 30, 2023 – SACRAMENTO, CA – California State PTA, a leading advocate for the education, health, and well-being of children and families, is pleased to announce the appointment of Josiah Kitonga as its new Managing Director. With a strong background in non-profit management, Kitonga brings a wealth of experience and a passion for creating positive change in the lives of children and families.

In Kitonga, California State PTA has found a collaborative and visionary leader who will work closely with the Board of Directors to drive strategic direction and ensure the continuity of the organization’s mission, goals, and objectives. As the Managing Director, Kitonga will oversee the organization’s day-to-day functions, lead the organization’s staff, and collaborate with volunteers and partners to advance California State PTA’s mission.

With a track record of success in operations, program management, fundraising, and community relations, Kitonga brings unique skills and expertise to the position. He has demonstrated a commitment to fostering diverse and inclusive environments, building solid partnerships, and implementing innovative strategies for organizational growth. Kitonga has a proven ability to lead high-performance teams, navigate complex challenges, and drive sustainable performance.

“Hiring our new Managing Director, Josiah Kitonga marks an exciting chapter for California State PTA,” said Carol Green, 2021-2023 President. “His experience and dedication to our mission make him the ideal leader to guide our association in positively impacting the lives of children and families across California.”

“I am thrilled to welcome Josiah to the organization,” said Shereen Walter, 2021-2023 President-Elect. “His enthusiasm, communication, and leadership skills will help our organization continue to thrive. I look forward to working together to strengthen the California State PTAs’ advocacy efforts, expand programs and services, and build strategic partnerships to address the organization’s evolving needs.”

“It is a privilege to join the organization at a time when California’s children, youth, and families need the support of the PTA more than ever,” said Kitonga. “I am ready to work collaboratively with the board and staff to help the California State PTA amplify its voice and increase its reach for the betterment of all children and families throughout California.”

###

About California State PTA: California State PTA connects families, schools, and communities. We are part of the foundation of our public education system and a trusted messenger to millions of members, parents, families, educators, and allied agencies throughout the state. PTA is the nation’s largest volunteer-led child advocacy association working to drive improvements in the education, health, and well-being of all children and families.

Media Contacts:
Josiah Kitonga, Managing Director
(916) 465-8600
jkitonga@capta.org

Barbara Smith, Vice President for Communications
(213) 393-6285
bsmith@capta.org

SACRAMENTO, JULY 12, 2021 – California State PTA has released the following statement in response to the education package signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom on Friday, July 9, 2021:

“This education package is great news for students and families in California,” said Carol Green, President of California State PTA. “There is a lot to celebrate in the $123.9 billion PreK-TK–K-12 education package. It includes funding for top PTA priorities including early childhood education, community schools and wrap-around services, universal school nutrition, and mental health services. PTA also supports the return to in-person instruction that includes a robust option for students who may need distance learning for health or other reasons.”

The safe return to in-person instruction is a priority for PTA members, and this budget prioritizes the safe return to in-person learning. As an organization that advocates for all children, including our most vulnerable, PTA wants to ensure that an option for quality distance learning also exists. We are pleased the Independent Study program is vastly improved under this plan and includes some of our recommendations, including standards aligned instruction, synchronous learning, access to college and career readiness courses, and stronger communication with students and families.

“We are also thrilled with the investment in universal transitional kindergarten for all four-year-olds by 2025.” Green added. “California State PTA has been advocating for this for years. We know this will go a long way toward closing opportunity and achievement gaps for future generations.”

The trauma of the pandemic highlighted inequities across our society. PTA continues to advocate for all children and families across California, and we are proud to be part of a process to bring a historic budget into reality.

###

About California State PTA: California State PTA connects families, schools and communities. We are part of the foundation of our public education system and a trusted messenger to millions of members, parents, families, educators and allied agencies throughout the state. PTA is the nation’s largest volunteer-led child-advocacy association working to drive improvements in the education, health and well-being of all children and families. For more information, visit www.capta.org.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Robin Klau
Vice President for Communications
communications@capta.org
925.380.1591

Sherry Skelly Griffith
Executive Director
sgriffith@capta.org
916.955.1699

California State PTA is writing on behalf of the children and families of California who want to see their children return to school as soon as it is safe to do so. It has been almost a year since California closed its school campuses and our children are falling behind academically and their mental health is suffering. We ask the Legislature and the Governor to work together on a coordinated plan that incorporates our recommendations for a safe reopening.

Ten Recommendations

We urge the Legislature and the Governor to adopt 10 recommendations for the timely and safe reopening of schools.

1. Coordinate Efforts The Legislature and the Governor must agree on a coordinated approach to reopening schools as quickly as safely possible.
2. Equitable Sufficient Funding There must be sufficient funding to cover the additional costs related to opening schools in person. And it must be equitable. All students should generate the same base funding grant with an LCFF adjustment that recognizes the impacts of the pandemic on disadvantaged students. Opening schools will require social emotional support for students and staff, and services to meet students’ and families’ needs including safe transportation for students.
3. Extra Funding for Health-Related Costs Funding to pay for testing, vaccines, contact tracing, and other COVID-related health costs should not be from Proposition 98 funds. Every Proposition 98 dollar spent on non-instructional costs is one less dollar to educate our children.
4. Protect the Health and Wellbeing of Students, Staff and Families The Governor, the Legislature and local governments must prioritize vaccinations for school staff, early childhood educators and childcare staff, especially those who are already working in-person.
5. Parent Communication and Input School districts must provide opportunities for robust input and feedback as they prepare and execute reopening plans. They must ensure parents representing the diversity of the community are included in decision-making.
6. In-Person Attendance Parents and families should be able to choose whether a child returns to school in-person depending on the health of the child and their family situation.
7. Mental Health Matters Support the mental health and wellbeing of our students and staff by providing adequate resources to support their individual needs. To protect student health and well-being, middle schools should not start before 8:00 am and high schools before 8:30 am.
8. Expanded Learning and Learning Loss Afterschool, summer school and childcare programs need to be available, fully funded and coordinated with the school day. All schools should develop programs to address learning loss and meet the needs of the whole child.
9. Follow Health Guidelines Schools should not open in person unless it is safe for students and staff. School districts should adhere to the requirements set forth by the California Department of Public Health and county health departments regarding the reopening of schools.
10. Realistic Timeline Any timeline for the reopening of schools should consider the needs of parents and teachers and respect the most accurate health guidelines. This includes making sure the school facility is safe for re-opening.

Schools need to open as soon as practically possible while protecting the health and well-being of students, staff and families. California’s students are counting on the Legislature and the Governor to come up with a realistic school reopening plan that meets the needs of all our school communities.

This statement was adopted by the Board of Managers on Feb. 20, 2021.

To download a PDF version of this statement, click here.

Exciting news: our partners Create CA and ArtsEd411 are merging! Through the coming months, they will integrate and combine efforts as California’s largest organization working to ensure every student has access to a full and relevant arts education. The statement below was released by Create CA and CAAE on February 11, 2021.

We know that arts education helps students heal from trauma and build resilience. This moment requires us to put student’s mental health and well-being at the forefront. That’s why we are thrilled to see our friends and partners at California Alliance for Arts Education (the Alliance) and Create CA seizing an opportunity to become stronger in the fight for every student’s right to receive an arts education by merging their organizations.

This merger builds on a longstanding partnership and unites them in their shared mission to make sure that a quality arts education is part of every student’s life.

Operating together under the Create CA name, they will combine the power of Create CA’s dynamic communications and innovative data project with the Alliance’s proven policy and advocacy track record and statewide network supporting districts and counties to provide a full arts education to all students. They recognize that students who are low income and of color face the greatest barriers to a full and relevant arts education. Collectively, they will continue to fight for students to get what they need and deserve, because ultimately they know this is an equity issue.

Together, they have the opportunity to reimagine the entire school system – centering student’s social and emotional needs, defeating systemic racism and making sure that arts education is part of every student’s life. By coming together, they’ll go farther faster in insisting that arts education is a student right.

With the stakes higher than ever, we’re so excited about what they will do together.

This article was written by Carol Kocivar, California State PTA’s Legislative Advocate.

The proposed California budget for next year targets significant funding to help children, youth and families recover from the health and economic crisis caused by COVID-19. This includes more money for housing, health, small businesses, low income families and education.

While the budget picture is unexpectedly rosy this year, projections are for lean years ahead. Because of this, the budget also socks away money for a rainy day to avoid deep cuts in future years.

Investments in Education

The Governor proposes to use some of this year’s economic windfall for three big education priorities

Pay Down Deferrals

What does this mean? Last year, the state did not have enough money to pay schools the full amount of money they were owed. So they delayed making full payments to schools for the year. This is called a deferral. Last year’s budget deferred $12.5 billion in payments to schools and community colleges. The Governor proposes to pay down $8.4 billion of this in 2021-22. Slightly more than $4 billion would remain deferred until 2022-23.

Money to Open Schools and Expanded Learning

The budget proposes one-time grants totaling $2 billion to help schools offer in-person instruction. These grants can be used for:

1. Salaries for certificated or classified employees providing in-person instruction or services
2. Social and mental health support services provided in conjunction with in-person instruction
3. COVID-19 testing
4. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
5. Ventilation and other site upgrades necessary for health and safety

Education organizations want funding for health, safety and testing to be paid with non Prop 98 funds, such as federal money.

Also in the budget is $4.6 billion in grants for additional academic support targeting disadvantaged students. This could include summer school, longer school days, community learning hubs, and other locally developed interventions. Expanded learning is a long-time PTA priority.

Cost of Living Adjustment

Last year there was not enough money to pay for an increase in the cost of living for education. This year the state is making up for this by giving a Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) of $2.2 billion ongoing.

Other Education Investments

K-12 per-pupil spending is projected to increase from $12,354 this year to $12,648 next year. Other education investments include:

1. Money to support pension payments
2. Training and recruitment for teachers and other educators
3. Special education services for infants, toddlers and preschool
4. Community schools
5. Student mental health
6. Early education
7. School to career data system

Investments Outside of Education

Business/individuals

The budget makes significant investments that support children, youth and families who suffered from the economic consequences of the pandemic. California’s unemployment rate increased from a record low of 3.9% in February to a record high of 16.4% in April and May. Small businesses struggled to stay afloat. The budget provides a variety of investments to create a financial recovery. Among the important supports for families is the Golden State Stimulus, a proposed tax refund for low-income earners who suffered economically from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Pandemic

The pandemic recovery investment includes vaccine distribution, preparing and expanding the health care system for a surge of cases, protecting at-risk populations, and emergency response activities.

You can find additional details about budget investments below:

• K-12 Budget Summary
• COVID-19 Pandemic Response
• Housing and Homelessness
• Labor and workforce development
• Health and Human Resources

Para leer este mensaje en español, desplácese hacia abajo en la página.

California State PTA is excited to announce that capta.org now offers English-to-Spanish translation*, using the Google Translate plug-in tool.

How to use it: Simply navigate to the page you want to translate, then click the “Translate” icon in the upper right corner and select “Spanish.” When the page automatically reloads, it will be all Spanish! No need to do this on every page you navigate to, but you can always toggle back to English if you’d like, using the same procedure.

We think this tool will make our website more accessible to the thousands of PTA members who primarily communicate in Spanish. Of course, Google Translate is not 100% perfect, but it comes pretty close!

Make sure you use the right web browser: The translation feature is only visible by navigating to capta.org using one of the following web browser versions:

1. Microsoft Edge, Version 84.0.522.40
2. Google Chrome, Version 84.0.4147.89
3. Firefox, Version 7.8.0.2

* PDF documents on the website are not translated by this tool

Nueva función de traducción del inglés al español en el sitio web

La PTA del Estado de California se complace en anunciar que capta.org ahora ofrece traducción del inglés al español *, utilizando un sistema de Google Translate.

Cómo se usa: simplemente navega hasta la página que deseas traducir, luego haz clic en el ícono “Translate” en la esquina superior derecha y selecciona “Spanish”. Cuando la página se recargue automáticamente, ¡todo estará en español! No es necesario hacer esto en cada página a la que navega, pero siempre puede volver al inglés si lo desea, utilizando el mismo procedimiento.

Creemos que esta función hará que nuestro sitio web sea más accesible para aquellos de ustedes que se comunican principalmente en español. Por supuesto, Google Translate no es 100% perfecto, ¡pero se acerca bastante!

Asegúrese de usar el navegador web correcto: La función de traducción solo es visible al navegar a capta.org usando una de las siguientes versiones del navegador web:

1. Microsoft Edge, versión 84.0.522.40
2. Google Chrome, versión 84.0.4147.89
3. Firefox, versión 7.8.0.2

* Esta funcion no traduce los documentos PDF del sitio web