Author: CAPTA IT

You’re on the Board Now! Here’s How to Prepare for a Successful 2025-26 School Year

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Even though you and your new board members don’t officially take over until July 1, there is a lot you can accomplish now to make sure you have a successful school year.

Before July 1, the new board can meet to:

  • Set ground rules and expectations for your new board
  • Look for people to fill vacancies on the board
  • Review your PTA’s bylaws and insurance guide so you are prepared to come up with awesome programs and fundraisers
  • Set up a budget committee with people from both the old and new board, so you can make plans combining new ideas with hits from the past
  • Develop a preliminary budget to be presented at the final association meeting of the year
  • Develop a preliminary calendar to be presented at the final association meeting of the year to get people excited for the new school year
  • Create a membership plan 
  • Meet with the principal to confirm that you are on the same page regarding the direction for next year and to avoid conflicts with the school calendar and other groups on campus, especially if you are at a high school and competing with athletic and music boosters

After July 1st:

  • Revise and adopt the budget and calendar at the first association meeting
  • Approve fundraisers and programs, then record them in the minutes of the general association meeting
  • Sign contracts – see the CAPTA website for information on contracts
  • Start promoting your membership campaign. The new membership year starts on July 1
  • Continue to meet with the principal. Remember, you are a guest on the campus and they need to know what is going on

Don’t forget to take advantage of training opportunities! Convention is not the only place to get trained. Double check with your district to see what training they have coming up in the next couple of months.

Creativity Can’t Wait!

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By the California State PTA Arts Education Committee

The arts are an important part of our students’ education, helping students develop confidence, creativity, communication, and critical thinking. In California, the arts are not optional—state law requires that subjects such as visual arts, music, theater, and dance be part of every student’s general education. When students engage in the arts, they learn to express themselves, solve problems, work collaboratively, and explore new ways of thinking. 

Proposition 28: The Arts and Music in Schools Funding Guarantee and Accountability Act, was approved by voters in 2022. These funds support additional arts teachers, expanded programs, materials, and school-based creativity opportunities that enrich students’ daily learning in TK-12 public and charter schools. 

School districts must use their first portion of Prop 28 funds by June 2026. This creates a meaningful opportunity for families and PTAs to partner with their schools and ensure that every student has access to high-quality arts learning. Now is the time to support, advocate for, and celebrate the arts in our public schools.

The Arts Education Committee will host a statewide webinar in early 2026 to provide additional information, resources, and practical tools to help families advocate for arts programs in their school communities.

Helpful Resources:

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Building a Brighter Future for Our Children!

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By the California State PTA Legislative Advocacy Team

The California State PTA adopted a position statement in April 1991, stating that Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) can be achieved by embracing the uniqueness of all individuals and appreciating that each contributes a diversity of views, experiences, cultural heritage/traditions, skills/abilities, values, and preferences. 

Creating equitable opportunities for all students requires ongoing commitment and intentional action. By fostering a culture that embraces differences and values in every child’s unique background, we are laying the foundation for academic success and personal growth. DEI initiatives not only enrich classroom experiences but also strengthen school communities by encouraging empathy, respect, and understanding among students, staff, and families. As an organization, PTA is committed to supporting efforts to ensure that every child feels seen, valued, and supported in their school community.

In the 2025-2027 term, California State PTA has taken a step forward by adding a DEI advocate to the Legislation Team. This new position complements and expands upon the work of our existing Board of Managers DEI Committee by focusing specifically on legislative and policy advocacy at the state level. The goal is to help raise state leaders’ awareness of how their decisions around education, curriculum, and school culture impact children and families from diverse backgrounds.

By making DEI a dedicated advocacy area, the PTA is not only raising its visibility but also forging stronger alliances with other equity-focused organizations. This collaborative effort is essential in creating inclusive environments where every young person can thrive.

On the California State PTA website, under Focus Areas, you will find a section devoted to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, offering tools and guidance for building inclusive school communities.

As we launch this new advocacy role, we want to hear about how you’ve engaged in DEI advocacy at the local, district, or state policy level. Have you advocated for inclusive curriculum materials that reflect the diverse identities of your student body? Have you worked with your school district to ensure equitable access to advanced coursework or mental health resources? Have you helped organize cultural celebrations or equity audits?

Please email Otis Cross, California State PTA DEI advocate, at ocross@capta.org to share your efforts and help us spotlight them for PTAs across California.

Join us at the 2026 California State PTA Legislation Conference

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Speak Up About the Issues that Matter

By the California State PTA Legislative Advocacy Team

On February 2 and 3, PTA members from all over California will gather in Sacramento to speak out for children and families at the annual California State PTA Legislation Conference (Leg Con). This transformative two-day event combines information on important issues, legislative training, and direct advocacy. 

Several state lawmakers will join us to talk about their education and child-welfare priorities for the 2026 legislative session. As always, school funding and its expected impact on schools will be a major focus as we hear from these elected officials. The uncertainties surrounding the federal budget make this a particularly pressing topic this year.

The conference is also expected to feature expert speakers and policy makers on several critically important issues:

  • The latest state guidance for keeping schools and students safe in the midst of immigration enforcement actions.
  • The impact of a changing and volatile climate on children’s learning and health, and how local communities can be resilient and well-prepared.
  • Current guidance from the state of California regarding childhood vaccinations.
  • How AI is impacting what happens in classrooms and how policymakers are addressing this growing concern.
  • What students in California say about their school experiences and the changes they think would make their education more relevant.

As an attendee, you’ll have a chance to connect with PTA advocates from all over California. It’s a chance to compare notes, trade ideas, and identify common ground. Then, on Tuesday afternoon, you’ll put into practice all you’ve learned when you go to the capitol to visit your legislators. 

More information, an invited speaker list, and details are available on the California State PTA legislation conference page. 

This isn’t just a conference—it’s your opportunity to become part of the solution. Every child deserves safety, health, and educational excellence. Every family deserves a voice in the policies that shape their future. Every PTA member can be a PTA Advocate. 

The Gift of PTA Membership & California State PTA Awards

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A Message from President Heather Ippolito

This is one of my favorite times of the year. It’s a time for family gatherings, beautiful decorations, and lots of singing! Another thing I love is finding the perfect gift for those I love – something that they will use and enjoy for more than just a day or two. 

PTA has several gifts that keep giving all year long. The first is a membership to a local unit. Show them that you support the work that is being done at your local schools by joining a PTA. You can also take advantage of all the Member Perks offered by State and National PTA to get discounts on products and services throughout the year. 

The second is some PTA swag from the PTA Store. Getting those you love a PTA shirt or a bag to carry all of their meeting supplies will show their support for PTA to all they meet. There are also gifts at every price point – from pencils on the low end to a mug in the mid-price range up to a customized sweatshirt at the higher end. You will find something for every PTA supporter!

Finally consider giving the gift of an Honorary Service Award (HSA). We have a variety of different awards for educators, administrators, or volunteers at every level. These awards come with a beautiful certificate as a keepsake and a pin that they can wear every day. Purchasing these awards benefits our schools and students; a portion of the price goes to our scholarship and grants budget which provides continuing education scholarships, high school senior scholarships, and program grants. Visit our website to learn more about Honorary Service Awards.

From all of us at California State PTA, we wish you a peaceful holiday season and look forward to a wonderful 2026.

Heather Ippolito
California State PTA President

PTA: The Gift that Keeps on Giving

A Message from President-Elect Will Sanford

Volunteers, and others who positively impact the lives of all children and families, are priceless. We want to make sure that we recognize the variety of ways that everyone in our school community makes an impact. From the crossing guard who helps kids get safely to school, to the dynamic recruiter of outside presenters for parent education, to the quiet parent who shows up and supports teachers as they prepare for class, to the office staff who make the school a welcoming place for all, we can and should recognize them with simple “Thank Yous”. These can be kudos in newsletters or social media posts, recognition through one of our PTA Honorary Service Awards, or by hosting specific thank you events.

Many of us are in PTA because someone asked us to help. Whether it is to join the PTA, share a skill or knowledge with a classroom, go on a field trip or lead an activity at a parent night, everyone can give something to create a better community for all our students and their families. It is our role as PTA members to encourage folks to do what they can to help us build a positive school community where all kids feel safe and protected, where learning is encouraged and supported, and respect is the expected way to interact with everyone in that community. Celebrate and recognize individuals who bring that spirit of respect, caring and desire to help all kids be successful.

Will Sanford
California State PTA President-Elect

The California Department of Education: Where Policy Meets Practice

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By the California State PTA Education Commission and the Legislative Advocacy Team

The California Department of Education (CDE) serves as the administrative backbone of the nation’s largest public school system, translating state policies into classroom reality for nearly 6 million students. Led by the elected State Superintendent of Public Instruction (SSPI) and guided by State Board of Education (SBE) policies, the Department functions as the operational hub connecting Sacramento’s decisions to local school districts throughout California.

The CDE works under a dual leadership structure. The State Board of Education sets educational policies and standards, while the State Superintendent serves as the Department’s chief executive, implementing those policies through approximately 2,000 dedicated staff members. This structure ensures that governance remains separate from day-to-day management while maintaining accountability to both elected and appointed officials.

  • From curriculum implementation to school funding distribution, the CDE has a direct impact on virtually every aspect of public education. When districts need guidance on new academic standards, technical assistance with special education compliance, or support during emergencies, they turn to Department specialists who provide expertise and resources.
  • Each year, the CDE administers billions of dollars in state and federal funding allocated to local education agencies, ensuring schools receive their fair share of resources. Staff members calculate complex funding formulas, monitor how districts spend categorical funds, and provide financial oversight to protect taxpayer investments. These functions have a direct impact on class sizes, program availability, and educational resources in local schools.
  • Implementing academic standards is a core CDE responsibility. When the SBE adopts new standards, Department staff play a lead role in the development of curriculum frameworks, creation of instructional guidance, and training of educators statewide. This work aims to ensure that policy decisions translate into meaningful classroom changes that benefit students.
  • The CDE oversees student assessment programs, coordinating standardized testing and providing districts with data analysis tools. These efforts help educators, parents, and local policymakers understand student progress, identify areas needing improvement, and inform everything from individual student support to statewide policy adjustments.
  • Special populations receive focused attention through specialized CDE units. Staff members ensure students with disabilities receive appropriate services, English learners get necessary support, and disadvantaged students access additional resources. These efforts help close achievement gaps and promote educational equity.
  • Teacher preparation and credentialing fall under CDE oversight. Working with the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing, the Department reviews educator preparation programs, issues teaching credentials, and monitors professional development requirements. Quality teaching has a direct impact on student learning, making these functions critical to educational success.
  • During crises, the CDE serves as the central coordination point for statewide responses. Whether addressing natural disasters, public health emergencies, or other challenges, Department staff work around the clock to ensure student safety while maintaining educational continuity.
  • The CDE provides multiple ways for parents and communities to engage. Public information specialists answer questions about state policies, compliance officers investigate concerns, and regional offices offer local support. Many Department initiatives begin with parent input or community concerns.

The California Department of Education transforms educational vision into educational reality, ensuring that policy decisions benefit students in classrooms across the state.

Parents, Guardians, and PTAs can interact with the CDE through various channels, including public comment opportunities, advisory committees, and direct communication with program specialists. Understanding Department functions helps families navigate the education system and advocate effectively for their children.

This article is part of a series on California’s state elected officials, offices, agencies, and how they impact the education of children and the lives of families throughout California. PTA/PTSAs in California are encouraged to share/reprint this information with all members as we head into the June 2026 California primary and November 2026 election.
– Read “The California State Superintendent: Shaping Education for Millions,” first published in the October 2025 PTA Connects
– Read “The California State Board of Education: Setting the Course for Student Success,” first published in the November 2025 PTA Connects

The Gift of Membership and Spotlight Awards

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By the California State PTA Membership Commission

A PTA membership is more than a sign-up—it’s a gift that creates real impact for students and families. Joining PTA means you are contributing to educational enhancements, providing opportunities for family engagement and strengthening programs at your local school. Membership also gives you the opportunity to attend and vote at Association meetings, meet like-minded parents, and build connections in your school community. You also become part of a larger force to advocate for children across the nation.

While joining your PTA does not require that you volunteer, people often find that by volunteering they gain a sense of personal fulfillment and self-growth. Volunteering, either as a member or leader, also helps you serve as a role model to your children and others. If you don’t have children in the school system, becoming a member can signify how much you value the importance of PTA’s work in the community. Your support is the greatest gift you can give to our future leaders.

Spotlight Awards

Don’t forget to apply for California State PTA’s Spotlight Awards. The Awards celebrate outstanding programs in Advocacy, Collaboration, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI), Environmental, Family Engagement, Membership and Outreach, Student Achievement and/or Engagement, and Leadership Development. It’s easy to apply and we want to hear about all the wonderful things your PTA units and councils are doing! The application deadline is January 16, 2026. 

Visit our website at capta.org/spotlight-awards for more information.

Looking Ahead to the 2026 State Convention in Fresno

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By the California State PTA Convention Commission

As we close out another remarkable year of service, our December theme “The Gift of PTA” invites us to reflect on the many ways our organization enriches schools and communities across California. Every PTA member, from local leaders to volunteers and partners, contributes something invaluable: time, talent, and a shared commitment to making every child’s potential a reality.

In May 2026, PTA leaders and advocates from across the state will come together in Fresno for the California State PTA Annual Convention. This signature event will celebrate our collective accomplishments, offer dynamic learning and networking opportunities, and honor outstanding individuals and associations through the PTA Awards Program. The convention will also serve as a powerful reminder of what happens when we unite to give the “gift” of advocacy, engagement, and leadership.

Sharing the Gift of PTA

Throughout this season, and in every season, there are countless ways to share the gift of PTA in our schools and communities:

  1. Grow Our Membership -
The greatest gift we can give our children is a strong voice in their education. Invite new families, teachers, and community members to join PTA and experience the power of collaboration and advocacy.
  2. Recognize Excellence -
PTA Honorary Service Awards and other forms of recognition is a meaningful way to thank individuals and organizations that go above and beyond for children and youth. Recognition inspires continued service and strengthens our collective mission.
  3. Give the Gift of Time and Talent – Whether it’s volunteering for an event, mentoring new leaders, or contributing professional expertise, every hour of service enriches our school communities and builds leadership capacity.
  4. Empower Student Voices – Encourage participation in programs like Reflections and student leadership roles that amplify the perspectives of young people. PTA’s support helps students see themselves as leaders and changemakers.
  5. Build Stronger Connections – Partner with local agencies, civic leaders, and businesses to expand PTA’s reach. These partnerships help sustain programs, enhance advocacy, and ensure that every community sees the impact of PTA’s work.
  6. Celebrate and Share Impact – Highlight your PTA’s achievements through newsletters, social media, and community events. Telling our stories not only celebrates success but also invites others to join the mission.

As we look forward to gathering in Fresno in May 2026, let us continue to share and celebrate the Gift of PTA, an enduring commitment to children, families, and the future of education. Today we honor the past; tomorrow we will shape the world; and together we make the difference.

We look forward to seeing you in Fresno – where every voice, every member, and every gift makes a difference.

The California State Board of Education: Setting the Course for Student Success

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By the California State PTA Education Commission and the California State PTA Legislative Advocacy Team

The California State Board of Education (SBE) serves as the policy-making body for the nation’s largest public school system, establishing the educational framework that guides nearly six million public school students. Appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate, this 11-member board makes decisions directly impacting every California family with school-age children.

The Board works closely with the elected State Superintendent of Public Instruction (SSPI), who serves as the chief executive implementing Board policies through the California Department of Education (CDE). This partnership separates governance from management. The Board sets direction while the Superintendent handles day-to-day operations.

  • The SBE sets academic standards determining what students learn from kindergarten through high school. When your child studies specific math concepts in fourth grade or takes particular science courses in high school, those requirements stem from SBE decisions. These standards ensure educational consistency statewide, so families moving from San Diego to Sacramento find similar academic expectations.
  • The SBE adopts instructional materials and textbooks for grades K-8, which are then recommended for voluntary use by school districts throughout California. These adoptions affect the books students read and how subjects are presented. 
  • The Board also establishes minimum graduation requirements, determining the number of years of English, math, science, and other subjects students must complete in order to earn a diploma.
  • The SBE plays a crucial role in educational equity by setting policies for special education services, English learner programs, and support for disadvantaged students. The Board establishes eligibility criteria and program standards that guide how school districts serve these populations. While individual accommodation decisions are made at the local level, SBE policies shape the overall approach to ensuring all students receive appropriate support.
  • Assessment and accountability fall under Board oversight. The SBE determines which standardized tests students take, how often they’re administered, and how results are evaluated to determine school performance. These decisions impact the class time devoted to testing and the information parents receive about their children’s progress. The board also approves the formulas and formats used to present student progress in districts’ Local Control and Accountability Plans, School Accountability Report Cards, and the California School Dashboard.
  • The Board shapes the teaching profession by establishing educator preparation and certification requirements. These policies determine teacher training needs and ongoing professional development, which directly impact the quality of student learning.
  • School funding represents another critical responsibility. While the Legislature appropriates funds, the SBE helps establish funding formulas and determines how certain funds are distributed, influencing class sizes, available programs, and local school resources.
  • The SBE hears appeals from local school districts for waivers from state laws, changes in school district boundaries, and many issues related to charter schools.
  • During emergencies, the Board can waive requirements or modify policies to ensure educational continuity while maintaining standards and student safety.
  • The SBE provides multiple opportunities for public input through meetings, hearings, and comment periods. Parents and community members can address the Board directly, submit written comments, and participate in policy development processes. Many significant educational changes begin with parent concerns brought to the Board’s attention.

The California State Board of Education functions as the educational compass for millions of students. Through policy development and standards-setting, Board members shape learning experiences, set expectations, and create the framework within which teachers teach and students learn throughout California.

Parents, guardians, and PTAs can influence Board decisions by staying informed about upcoming policy discussions, attending meetings, and communicating with their representatives. Since Board members are gubernatorial appointments, families can also engage with the Governor’s office about education priorities and Board composition.

This article is part of a series on California’s state-elected officials, offices, and agencies, as well as how they impact the education of children and the lives of families throughout California. PTA/PTSAs in California are encouraged to reprint/share this information with all members as we head into the June 2026 California primary and November 2026 election.

– Read “The California State Superintendent: Shaping Education for Millions,” first published in the October 2025 PTA Connects

Celebrating California PTA’s 2025 Legislative Victories: A Year of Protecting Children and Families

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By the California State PTA Legislation Advocacy Team

As we wrap up the 2025 legislative session, California PTA members across the state have every reason to celebrate. Through dedicated advocacy, strategic partnerships, and unwavering commitment to our mission of supporting children and families, we helped advance 34 critical bills that the Governor has signed into law.

For a comprehensive look at what these new laws mean for your community, visit Ed100.org—a trusted, PTA-safe resource where Carol Kocivar, current CA PTA Advocate and former State President, breaks down this year’s legislation in clear, shareable language. Whether you’re preparing for a unit meeting or updating your community, Ed100 provides the details you need.

Protecting Our Most Vulnerable Students and Families

This year, protecting students and families became a top priority for California’s leaders, and PTA advocacy was at the forefront. We tackled this critical issue on multiple fronts: through legislative co-sponsorship and comprehensive Safe Schools advocacy, including our advice for PTA members and leaders on immigration enforcement near schools.

We co-sponsored three important bills in this area: 

  • AB 49 (the California Safe Haven Schools Act), 
  • SB 98 (immigration enforcement notification requirements), and 
  • SB 48 (establishing discrimination prevention coordinators). 

We also supported AB 495 (the Family Preparedness Plan Act of 2025). Together, these laws ensure that our schools remain safe havens where all children can learn without fear, and families can feel secure, regardless of their immigration status.

Simultaneously, California State PTA equipped local leaders with comprehensive resources through webinars, templates, and toolkits, empowering PTAs statewide to partner with school districts, share know-your-rights information, and support families. This multi-pronged approach—combining legislation and grassroots advocacy—demonstrates PTA’s commitment to protecting every child and family.

Confronting Hate and Discrimination
Our co-sponsored bill, SB 48, along with AB 715, establishes at the state level a new Office of Civil Rights and creates discrimination prevention coordinator positions to combat antisemitism and all forms of hate in California schools. These bills also provide resources, training, and enforcement strategies to ensure our schools remain welcoming spaces for all students.

Advancing Student Health, Safety, and Family Support
Our advocacy portfolio this year was remarkably comprehensive. From supporting AB 1454, which strengthens reading instruction through the science of reading, to backing AB 1264, making California the first state to ban ultra-processed foods from school meals by 2032, we championed legislation that supports the whole child and empowers families.

We supported critical safety measures, including electric bicycle safety requirements, youth sports safety protocols, drowning prevention education, and expanded access to epinephrine at schools. Our advocacy extended to special education improvements, teacher credentialing reforms, cyberbullying prevention, and expanded childcare access—recognizing that strong families are essential to student success.

Looking Ahead
Of the nearly 2,800 bills introduced this legislative session, approximately 1,200 reached the Governor’s desk. Our advocacy helped ensure that the bills most critical to children and families advanced through this competitive process. This success reflects the collective power of PTA members across California who contacted legislators, attended hearings, and made their voices heard. Visit Ed100.org to deepen your understanding of these new laws and discover how to share this information locally. 

As we celebrate these victories, we also recognize that our work continues. Join us for LegCon26—California State PTA’s 2026 Legislation Advocacy Conference—February 2-3, 2026, in Sacramento. At LegCon you can learn from experts, network with PTA advocates statewide, and meet directly with legislators. 

Together, we’re building a stronger, safer, more equitable California for every child and family.