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
• Marilyn Lucey, Vice President for Health & Community Concerns
• Brad Waller, Vice President for Education
• Anita Avrick, Vice President for Family Engagement
• Kathleen Fay, Director of Legislation
• Nicholas Smetak, Secretary
• Derick Boerner, Treasurer
• Becca Marks-Anderson, Parliamentarian
• Diane Hyland, Chair of the District Presidents
• Josiah Kitonga, Managing Director

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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.”

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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, OCTOBER 1, 2021 – California State PTA has released the following statement in response to Governor Gavin Newsom’s announcement today of a new vaccination mandate for students and school employees. The state mandate is expected to go into effect by July 1, 2022, after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) fully approves COVID-19 vaccines for those 12 and older. Additional details are expected in the coming weeks and months.

“California State PTA supports the use of vaccines to protect the health and safety of children and families across California.  The state of California has required student vaccinations in public schools for years and PTA has long-held positions on vaccine requirements to protect our most vulnerable children.

“Vaccination is an important tool to ensure our schools remain open for in-person instruction while protecting the health and safety of our students, staff, and entire communities.

“Throughout the pandemic, California State PTA has been working with state leaders including the California Surgeon General, the Superintendent of Public Instruction, the California Education Coalition, and various equity groups to advocate for children and families – and we will continue to do so. We look forward to working with parents and families, the governor, and policymakers to ensure students and families are involved in the rollout of this new regulation.”

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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

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.

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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

SACRAMENTO, JULY 7, 2021 – Carol Green, a dedicated advocate for all children and families, began her term as California State PTA President on July 1, 2021. Green, a passionate volunteer and advocate for children and families, now leads the largest child advocacy association in California as it strives to improve the health, safety, education and welfare of the state’s nine million children.

Green was elected to the 2021-23 term of office. In her new role, she will serve as chair of the Board of Directors and chief executive officer of the nation’s largest and oldest child advocacy organization connecting families, schools and communities.

A resident of San Diego County and mother of three, Green has volunteered in various PTA roles and in numerous other positions supporting children and education. Her service with PTA has included roles at the local, regional, and state levels, including a local unit president, a council president, a district president, and the Vice President for Communications, the Vice President for Membership Services, 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 Green. “We know that when families and schools work together, all children benefit. After the challenging time we have had over the last 16 months, it is more important than ever that we work together to ensure our children get what they need, including mental health support, educational resources, and a support structure to deal with the trauma, grief and loss they have experienced. We must protect our most precious resource.”

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

“Carol brings a wealth of experience to the role of President and CEO of the California State PTA,” said Sherry Griffith, Executive Director of California State PTA. “Her dedication, passion and commitment to the children and families of California will take us to the next level of growth and inclusiveness for the organization. Carol will ensure we support the next generation of PTA leaders and members to build back family engagement during what has been such a challenging time in our public school system.”

Green has a bachelor’s degree in communication and journalism from San Diego State University, and worked as a radio and television journalist for more than 20 years. She is currently a communications consultant and public health advocate working with nonprofit organizations to create policy change.

Green looks forward to leading an outstanding Board of Directors during the 2021–2023 term:

• Carol Green, President
• Shereen Walter, President-elect
• Michael Morgan, Vice President for Leadership Services
• Jeff Price, Vice President for Membership Services
• Robin Klau, Vice President for Communications
• Ellen Torres, Vice President for Convention
• Derby Pattengill, Vice President for Health & Community Concerns
• Laura Mudge, Vice President for Education
• Heather Ippolito, Vice President for Family Engagement
• Lea Darrah, Director of Legislation
• Abby Fellman, Secretary
• Laura Hawk-Loya, Treasurer
• Brad Waller, Parliamentarian
• Derick Boerner, Chair of the District Presidents
• Sherry Skelly Griffith, Executive Director

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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: www.capta.org.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Sherry Skelly Griffith, Executive Director
sgriffith@capta.org
916-955-1699

Robin Klau, Vice President for Communications
rklau@capta.org
925-380-1591