Author: CAPTA IT

Celebrate National Arts in Education Week September 14-20

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National Arts in Education Week is a nationwide celebration of the transformative power of the arts in education.

Passed by Congress in 2010, this week is designated to highlight the benefits of and need for the arts in education. Therefore, elected officials and educational decision-makers nationwide can find ways to support equitable arts access for students of all backgrounds.

According to the National Art Education Association, the arts are an essential part of a complete education in the home, school, and community. Students of all ages benefit from artistic learning, innovative thinking, and creativity. Celebrating National Arts in Education Week is a way to recognize this impact and share the message with friends, family, and communities.

Arts education, including dance, music, theater, media arts, literature, design, and visual arts, is a core academic subject and an essential element of a complete and balanced education for all students.

Your PTA can help celebrate National Arts in Education Week at your schools and in your communities by hosting a family arts night or sharing on your site’s social media the arts that are available at your school.

Be sure to share how your school celebrates National Arts in Education Week and don’t forget to tag us! 

PTSAs Should Support High School Voter Education Weeks: September 15-26

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California State PTA supports the goal of fostering voting habits early, and that starts in our high schools. Our state’s official High School Voter Education Weeks, from September 15-26, provide the ideal opportunity for local PTA/PTSA units and their members to put that goal into action. 

Did you know that high school students can pre-register to vote once they turn 16? Data from The Civics Center also shows that student-led voter registration drives can make a difference in youth voter turnout once kids turn 18. 

If your unit or council is interested in helping students run their own voter registration drive, you’ll find helpful information here:

  • This Ed100.org blog explains the importance of high school voter registration and the power of having student-run registration drives.
  • The Civics Center provides advice, free training for students, and a wealth of incentives to help students run on-campus registration drives, including information they can share with school officials.
  • The Secretary of State website provides helpful information and resources to support high school voter registration. 
  • The Civic Engagement page on the California State PTA website provides even more information and additional resources, including flyers that were part of the Summer Mailing.

The California Secretary of State (SOS) calls High School Voter Education Weeks an opportunity to “promote civic education and participation on campus and foster an environment that cultivates lifelong voters and active citizens.” That’s an opportunity California State PTA wholeheartedly supports!

AI in Education: Are We Ready?

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With Back to School underway in California, one of the most discussed and debated topics, maybe next only to cell phone usage, is Artificial Intelligence (AI) and how it would transform teaching. When used responsibly, AI offers opportunities to make education more equitable and prepare students with the skills they need to succeed in our ever-changing world.

At the 2025 State PTA Convention, the workshop “AI in Education: Leveraging Technology for Inclusive Learning” explored both the promise and the challenges of integrating AI into California classrooms. This discussion builds on the California State PTA’s recently adopted position statement, Advancing Education Through Artificial Intelligence.

A key takeaway from the workshop was how AI can personalize learning, adapt content in real-time, and support students with diverse learning needs. Presenters shared examples of tools that can identify gaps in understanding, offer targeted practice, and provide accommodations for students who need additional support. Using AI for redundant work was discussed to help teachers free up their time for more meaningful interactions with their students. The most effective learning at school happens when students have both great educators and powerful tools at their disposal.

The workshop also emphasized the need for ethical and equitable implementation. Speakers cautioned about potential risks including algorithmic bias, threats to student privacy, and unequal access to technology. Participants were encouraged to remain engaged and ask the following important questions in their school communities, board meetings, and PTA association meetings:

  • How is AI being used in our classrooms?
  • Who is monitoring the data?
  • Are all students benefitting equally?

PTA leaders and parents have a vital role in advocating for responsible technology policies that prioritize student learning, safety, and equity. Educators must feel confident and supported in using AI tools effectively and appropriately. Targeted professional development and PTA programs can promote digital literacy for families, helping parents understand both the opportunities and limitations of AI in education.

Ultimately, AI is neither a magic solution nor an inherent threat. It is a tool. Its value depends on how it is designed, implemented, and evaluated. With informed leadership and engaged families, AI can help create more inclusive, personalized learning experiences aligned with PTA’s mission to positively impact the lives of all children and families. 

You can learn more about these programs through National PTA’s “PTA Connected” programs for strong digital citizenship.

2025-26 Membership Campaign: Together We Make a Difference Across California

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The beginning of a new school year marks an opportunity to reach out and invite people to join our PTA/PTSA community. 

California State PTA is excited to announce the 2025-2026 membership campaign, “Together We…” Join us on our journey to grow PTA while completing our membership challenges and earning fun incentives. 

Learn more here about our membership challenges for your unit. Let’s show what we can do…TOGETHER!

Back to School with PTA

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A Message from California State PTA President

Back to school season is full of emotions. Students are excited to see their friends after a long summer break. Families are relieved to have a routine again after a summer of fun. Sending your child off to preschool, TK, or kindergarten for the first time is both exciting and sad. This year I took my own daughter off to college in Oregon for her freshman year and felt that same range of emotions. I’m so excited for all that she is about to experience and how much she will grow, but I’m also terribly sad that I won’t get to see her as much.

I also want to acknowledge that this school year is different. Many of our families feel overwhelmed and concerned. Between changes to education at the federal level and increased immigration enforcement activities affecting our California school communities, there is understandable uncertainty about our children’s safety and well-being. Now more than ever, it is time to focus on our common goal to serve all children and families. This is the work that PTA has championed since 1897—speaking for every child with one voice. Together, I know we can take on the challenges of this school year and make it an opportunity to collectively use our voices to ensure safe, welcoming schools where every family and every student can thrive. 

Thank you for being part of California State PTA as we work to positively impact the lives of all children and families—today, tomorrow, together.

Sincerely,

Heather Ippolito
California State PTA President

A Message from California State PTA President-Elect

Back to School is a time of new beginnings for our children, families and school communities. PTA is about positively impacting the lives of all children and families. Here are some ideas on how to promote PTA’s mission:

  • Create local opportunities to volunteer or participate in PTA, School, and community activities each month
  • Promote district opportunities for families to share their voice and advocate for what is most important to them and their students
  • Plan family activity nights throughout the year
  • Offer resources related to building positive self-image, self-advocacy and positive relationships.

 We encourage your PTA to help your families think about how they can engage with each other, their school, and their community with the goal of building a positive image and framework for our children.

Will Sanford
California State PTA President-Elect

We’ve Got Star Power! Celebrate Sun Day on September 21

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The Star in this case is our very own sun. The Power is our growing ability to harness solar and wind energy to provide the electricity we use every day – affordably and sustainably

To celebrate the potential and practical benefits of solar power, organizations in the U.S. have called for a national Sun Day action event on September 21 – that’s a SUNday of course! As part of this term’s California State PTA Advocacy Goal related to climate change, our organization is proud to support this event. Our Board of Managers kicked things off with a fun little art project that reminds us of the power of wind and sun together.

You can create and share your own Sun Day art HERE and also get information about participating in or organizing your own local Sun Day celebrations.

PTA Scholarships & Grants: Supporting Those Who Help Our Kids

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Scholarships for YOUR Learning Goals

PTA Volunteers, Teachers, Counselors, Nurses, and School StaffWe know how much time, care, and dedication you give to championing students and schools. Each fall, the California State PTA proudly offers scholarships and grants to help you learn, grow, and bring new ideas to life.

These funds can be used for any educational goal. Here’s what is available:

For PTA Volunteers
Have you been volunteering with PTA for at least three years? You can apply for a $500 Continuing Education Scholarship to put toward your studies at a California college, university, trade, or technical school. To apply for a scholarship you need to be a member of a PTA/PTSA that is in “good standing.” Not a member yet? No problem—just join your local PTA today and you’re all set! Visit our website to learn more.

For Teachers, Counselors, Nurses & School Staff
If you’ve worked in a California public school for at least three years, you’re eligible for the $500 Continuing Education Scholarship too! Use it for whatever learning path excites you most. You must be employed in a California public school during the preceding year and plan to continue working in a California school. 

Grants for PTA Programs

PTA Units, Councils, and Districts can also apply for grants to fund awesome programs at your school, like:

  • Cultural Arts Grant – bring arts education to life
  • Outreach Translation Grant – make information accessible in more languages
  • Healthy Lifestyles Grant – encourage health and wellness
  • Parent Education Grant – support parents as learners, too

If your PTA wants to apply for one or more of our program grants, you can find more information and complete application instructions at capta.org/grants-awards.

If you have questions about the California State PTA Scholarships and Grants Program, contact the California State PTA Scholarships and Grants Chair at scholarships@capta.org.    

*PTAs in good standing must have a President, Treasurer, and Secretary, a minimum of 15 paid members, bylaws reviewed within the last 5 years, and tax filings must be up to date.

Application due no later than October 15, 2025

APPLY NOW 

FRES-YES CONVENTION – WORTH THE INVESTMENT!

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As you head into the new school year, please remember to set aside funds in your budget for one or more of your PTA leaders to attend the California State PTA Convention, which will take place May 1-May 3, 2026 in Fresno, California. 

Participating in the California State PTA Convention is an incredible opportunity for your leaders to grow their skills, be inspired to move forward with PTA goals, and connect with PTA leaders from across California who share the same passion for supporting students and families. 

Empower Your PTA Leaders—Strengthen Your School Community!

Sending your PTA leaders to the California State PTA Convention benefits your entire PTA and school community. Explore highlights from our 2025 Convention at capta.org/convention, and stay tuned for exciting monthly updates on our Fres-Yes 2026 Convention!

Resolutions: Your Voice Shapes PTA’s Future

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Written by Karen Ford Cull, Resolutions Committee Chair 2025–27

If you’ve ever thought, “I wish PTA would take a stand on this issue,” writing a resolution is how that happens. Resolutions allow members to elevate concerns, propose solutions, and guide PTA’s advocacy on behalf of all children and families.

Every resolution starts the same way – at a general meeting of your PTA association. Whether it’s your unit, council, or district, members must first vote to approve the idea. From that moment, your resolution can begin its journey to the California State PTA Annual Meeting also known as Convention, where adopted resolutions become official PTA authorities used to set positions and influence legislation.

The Timeline: Step by Step

  • Fall: Bring your idea to your unit, council, or district general association meeting for a vote. 
  • By November 1: Submit the draft resolution to the California State PTA Resolutions Committee. You can submit the draft resolution earlier if it is ready.
  • November–December: Work with an assigned California State PTA mentor to refine your resolution. Mentorship will be assigned to you as soon as you submit your draft.
  • By January 5: Submit your final draft to the Resolutions Committee for review.
  • Convention: Adopt resolutions, which will guide PTA action and can also be submitted to National PTA if they meet national criteria.

What Makes a Resolution Successful

Resolutions must:

Because resolutions must be supported by credible research, they provide PTA advocates with strong, reliable authority when speaking to legislators, community leaders, and schools.

How Resolutions Drive Action

Once adopted, resolutions don’t sit on a shelf – they guide California State PTA commissions and committees in developing resources, partnering with organizations, and recommending advocacy strategies. Resolutions also serve as the foundation for PTA’s legislative positions, empowering our collective voice at the state and national level.

Now is the time to take the first step. Bring your idea to your local PTA association meeting and begin the journey to submit your resolution by November 1. Visit capta.org/resolutions for resources and guidance on how to get started. Contact Resolutions@capta.org if you have any questions.

We Should Have a Resolution on That!

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by Resolutions Committee

A History of Parent Advocacy

Founded in 1897, Parent Teacher Association (PTA) is a nationwide network of 4 million families, students, educators, and community leaders working at the school building, district, state, and national levels to improve education, health and safety conditions for our children. The PTA’s mission is to make every child’s potential a reality by engaging and empowering families and communities to advocate for all children. PTA gives parents a united and powerful voice, a seat at the decision making table, and the tools to influence change that will better the lives of all children.  

Important guides to PTA Advocacy

PTA advocacy is led by our members from the local elementary school to the state and national level.  Our efforts are guided by PTA authorities, such as resolutions, position statements and legislation platforms that are adopted by either our national or state organization. For California State PTA that includes our Mission Statement, our Resolutions and our Position Statements.  

Why PTA Members Should Write a Resolution

PTA Resolutions call attention to a problem and a need for action on a particular issue. They are a major source of authority to take positions on issues for the California State PTA and its units, councils, and districts. If a problem or situation has statewide implications affecting children, youth and families, a convention resolution is one way to authorize PTA action. Resolutions are adopted by a majority vote of delegates at the annual meeting. Resolutions are PTA authorities created and adopted by the membership. Resolutions must meet the following criteria:

  • Be in accordance with PTA purposes and policies
  • Be prepared according to criteria specified in the California State PTA Resolutions Procedure Book.
  • Follow National PTA guidelines, if a resolution is to be forwarded to the National PTA

Is there a statewide  issue you feel should be addressed by PTA?  

Have a look at the California State PTA Toolkit here for details on advocacy.  If you do not see a resolution or position statement on the topic, please contact the Resolutions committee resolutions@capta.org for guidance. 

We look forward to your help in strengthening our voice for the children and families of California.