Author: Lydia Vi

The California Governor: Leading Policy that Impacts Children and Families

Posted on by Lydia Vi

By the Family Engagement Commission and the Legislative Advocacy Team

The California Governor serves as the state’s chief executive, wielding broad constitutional and administrative powers that touch virtually every aspect of life in California. This elected position is chosen by voters statewide every four years, and 2026 is an election year. Our Governor leads the nation’s most populous state and has authority over a massive government apparatus including dozens of departments, agencies, and boards. From proposing budgets exceeding $300 billion to appointing thousands of officials, the Governor’s decisions impact over 39 million Californians, including policies affecting children, families, health, safety, welfare, education, and community engagement.

  • The Governor’s most significant impact comes through the state budget process. California spends over $100 billion on public education as part of a budget that exceeds $320 billion dollars. The Governor proposes the initial budget each January, setting spending priorities for schools, health programs, family services, and community initiatives. Budget decisions, which are made in concert with the Legislature, determine program availability, service levels, and the distribution of resources statewide.
  • Through appointment powers, the Governor shapes much of California’s governance. These appointments determine policy direction and service delivery for programs families depend on daily. The Governor: 
    • selects State Board of Education members and appoints members to other boards and commissions affecting children and families, including those overseeing health services, child welfare, and community safety programs. 
    • appoints department heads who directly impact families, including the Secretary of Health and Human Services (overseeing child welfare and family support), the Director of Public Health (setting health and safety standards), the Director of Social Services (managing nutrition and assistance programs), and the Director of Emergency Services (coordinating disaster response). 
  • The Governor also influences policy through legislative leadership, working with the Legislature to pass laws affecting families. Through the power to sign or veto legislation, the Governor can approve beneficial measures or block harmful ones. Whether supporting early childhood programs, addressing community safety, promoting mental health services, or advancing family support initiatives, the Governor’s legislative agenda directly impacts children and communities throughout California.
  • Emergency powers give the Governor significant authority during crises. Natural disasters, public health emergencies, or other challenges can necessitate immediate statewide responses, which are often coordinated through executive orders and emergency declarations. These actions can modify operations, funding distributions, and requirements to ensure safety and the continuity of operations.
  • The Governor provides executive leadership for state departments serving children and families. Through cabinet-level coordination, the Governor ensures agencies work together effectively to provide comprehensive support for family well-being and child protection.
  • Child welfare and family support represent critical gubernatorial focus areas. The Governor’s policies on foster care, family preservation services, child protection, and support for vulnerable families directly affect how well California serves its most at-risk children and families.
  • Health and safety policies represent critical gubernatorial responsibilities. The Governor’s decisions on mental health services, substance abuse prevention, child welfare protections, and community safety initiatives directly impact children’s well-being and family stability.
  • The Governor’s influence extends to local communities through grants, special programs, and targeted initiatives that often support California PTA priorities. Whether promoting civic engagement, supporting family involvement programs, advancing gun safety measures, or ensuring equitable access to resources, gubernatorial policies often translate into funding and opportunities that strengthen communities and support children.

The California Governor serves as a key leader in shaping policies that affect children and families, wielding executive authority that influences health, safety, education, and community well-being for millions of young Californians and their families throughout the state.

Parents, guardians, and PTAs, including students, can engage with the Governor’s office through public comment opportunities on budget proposals, town halls, and regional office communication. Understanding the Governor’s role helps families advocate effectively and hold elected officials accountable for outcomes affecting children and families.

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
– Read “The California Department of Education: Where Policy Meets Practice,” first published in the December 2025 PTA Connects
– Read “The California Attorney General: Protecting Students and Schools,” first published in the January 2026 PTA Connects

PTA Advocacy: Continuing a 129-Year Legacy

Posted on by Lydia Vi

By the California State PTA Legislative Advocacy Team

On February 17, 1897, Alice McLellan Birney and Phoebe Apperson Hearst convened over 2,000 people in Washington, D.C. to launch what would become the nation’s largest volunteer child advocacy organization. In 1926, Selena Sloan Butler founded the National Congress of Colored Parents and Teachers to advocate for all children, especially those in segregated communities. These three PTA founders believed parents working together could eliminate threats endangering children—and they were right. Their vision built an organization that has championed kindergarten classes, child labor laws, public health services, school lunch programs, juvenile justice reform, and mandatory immunizations. 

Today, California State PTA’s Legislative Advocacy Team carries this mission forward.

California State PTA has a bold history of creating and supporting laws that improve the lives of all children. Our advocacy protects the rights of all children, youth, and families regardless of background, status, or identity. We work to assure high-quality, inclusive, and equitable public education with meaningful opportunities for family participation. We safeguard the health, safety, and well-being of children and families while supporting measures that equip students, schools, and communities to address the effects of climate change.

This work produces tangible results. California State PTA has been recognized with the Outstanding State Advocacy Award from National PTA for our efforts on behalf of children. For decades, we have advocated for adequate and equitable school funding in California. Our support helped pass the Local Control Funding Formula, which fundamentally changed how schools are funded and how parents participate in educational decisions. We have pushed for accountability measures that consider the needs of the whole child—not just test scores, but also graduation rates, access to the arts and enrichment, and school social climate. We continue advancing efforts to ensure all students have access to a full curriculum that includes the arts.

The Legislative Advocacy Team prepares PTA members to engage effectively in the democratic process. We train local advocacy chairs and legislative officers, providing resources and guidance to streamline their work. The annual Legislation Conference brings PTA advocates to Sacramento to meet with legislators, learn advocacy skills, and strengthen our collective voice for children.

Every PTA member can continue the legacy of our founders. 

  • Sign up for action alerts at capta.org to receive notifications when your voice is needed on legislation affecting children. 
  • Attend your local school board meetings and participate in the Local Control Accountability Plan process. 
  • Use social media to amplify the PTA’s voice on education issues. 
  • Complete the free Ed100.org online course to deepen your understanding of California education and share it with others in your PTA. 
  • Most importantly, get informed, vote, and encourage others to do the same, including high school students.

Our founders understood the power of individual action. They worked beyond the accepted barriers of their day and took action to change the world for all children. When you join your local PTA in advocacy work, you become part of a tradition that has been making a difference for 129 years. The challenges facing today’s families may differ from those of 1897, but the solution remains the same: families and educators working together to make the world better for children.

Countdown to Convention 2026: See You in Fresno! 

Posted on by Lydia Vi

By the California State PTA Convention Commission

The countdown has officially begun! The California State PTA Convention will take place in Fresno from April 30–May 3, and now is the perfect time to start planning to attend this exciting and inspiring event. Whether you are a first-time convention attendee or a returning participant, Convention offers leadership, training, and connection for everyone.

PTA Convention is more than just meetings; it’s a powerful opportunity to grow as a leader, gain new skills, and connect with PTA members from across the state. Attendees will have access to engaging workshops, hands-on training, inspiring speakers, and opportunities to share ideas that can strengthen your local PTA and school communities. Planning early helps with travel arrangements, budgeting, and scheduling. Be sure to start those conversations now with your board and members about sending delegates and attendees.

As we prepare for Convention, we’re also approaching Founders’ Day next month, a special time to reflect on the history and mission of PTA. Founders’ Day reminds us why this work matters. Our current actions, advocating for children, supporting families, and building strong school communities, are based on the PTA principles of the last 129 years. Attending Convention is a meaningful way to honor our founders by continuing their legacy through leadership, service, and education.

Mark your calendar, share with your PTA, and start planning now for April 30 to May 3 in Fresno. We can’t wait to come together to learn, lead, and celebrate the strength of PTA at Convention!

Celebrating Diversity, Strengthen Your PTA

Posted on by Lydia Vi

By the California State PTA Membership Services Commission

February is a great month to celebrate diversity. With Lunar New Year, Black History Month, and African American Heritage Month, PTAs have an opportunity to appreciate and honor the many different cultures that shape our community.

February is also the month when we celebrate PTA Founders’ Day. The PTA was founded by parents and advocates who wanted to bring families together and make sure every child’s voice was heard. Their inclusive vision still guides PTAs today as we continue to support and celebrate diversity.

Including many different voices helps make your PTA strong and welcoming. One way to do this is to have a diverse executive board. Look at who is on your PTA board and who your members are. If some communities aren’t yet represented, reach out and invite them to participate. Listen to all voices, build relationships, and share important PTA information with everyone in your community. When people feel welcomed and respected, they are more likely to take part. This helps the board understand what families need and how to support them.

A diverse executive board also helps attract and keep a diverse membership. When families see themselves represented in PTA leadership, they feel more connected and more comfortable attending meetings, joining discussions, sharing ideas, and volunteering. Involving people from many backgrounds makes PTA activities better and supports the well-being of all children and youth.

The Anxiety Generation: How We Can Support Student Mental Health

Posted on by Lydia Vi

By the California State PTA Education Commission

As we begin a new year, let’s make sure every student has the support they need to face today’s challenges. In today’s world, academic pressure, constant screen use, social comparison, and ongoing uncertainty are leaving many students feeling overwhelmed. This results in anxiety increasingly shaping the school experience for today’s children and teens. 

Student mental health is not separate from academic success—it is essential to it. When students feel safe, supported, and emotionally regulated, they are better able to learn and thrive. As one student shared, “It’s not that school is hard—it’s that it never feels like there’s time to breathe or ask for help.” Another student expressed these feelings through art, creating a piece that showed “a crowded mind slowly making space for calm.” Student reflections—written, spoken, or visual—offer powerful insight into what young people are experiencing.

Schools can support students through social-emotional learning, access to counselors and wellness staff, and positive school climates where asking for help is normalized. Families play a critical role by keeping communication open and addressing concerns early. Let us all step up in creating a nurturing study environment for our students!

PTAs are uniquely positioned to connect schools, families, and communities – turning awareness into action. Here are some ways in which we can help:

PTA Action Box: Student Voice in Action

  • Invite students to submit artwork or short reflections on stress, balance, or well-being
  • Display student work at PTA meetings, school events, or wellness nights
  • Partner with art teachers or counselors for a “Wellness Through Art” showcase
  • Include student reflections (with permission) in newsletters or on PTA platforms
  • Advocate for arts education as a tool for expression and mental health

Supporting student mental health is part of educating the whole child. Let’s all play a part in providing this support!

Celebrating PTA’s Legacy of Advocacy

Posted on by Lydia Vi

A Message from President Heather Ippolito

Legacy. As I reflect on the meaning of “legacy,” I think of our PTA founders. Phoebe Apperson Hearst and Alice McLellan Birney were women from affluent families. They didn’t have children working in coal mines or in factories, but they saw these children and knew that it was wrong. They then used their influence to partner with mothers, fathers, teachers, and community members to advocate for child labor and safety laws with their newly formed National Congress of Mothers.

Selena Sloan Butler was an African-American educator. When her community lacked a kindergarten for Black children, she created one at home—launching a lifelong mission to improve schools and protect every child’s right to learn. She formed the National Congress of Colored Parents and Teachers and these two groups officially combined in 1970 to become the PTA we know and love today.

What do these three women have in common? They have a legacy of: 

  • serving children and families in their community
  • seeing a need and doing something about it
  • raising their voices to ensure that children and youth received the resources they needed to reach their full potential.

PTA has a proud legacy that we celebrate every year on February 17th. We share the stories of these women and the volunteers who have served after them. We talk about the advocacy our organization has done from the creation of kindergarten to hot school lunches to arts education and the formation of the juvenile justice system. We pass the hat for a free-will offering that benefits local, state, and national PTA. And hopefully we have cake or another sweet treat to thank our volunteers for being part of our organization!

This month, I’d love for you to think about your PTA legacy and what you want that to look like. Are you wanting to take your volunteerism to the next level and run for an office in your unit, council, or district? Or are you willing to apply to serve on state or National PTA? Is advocacy your legacy? Are you willing to speak up for children and families to ensure that ALL of our students have what they need to be successful? Are you in a position to give funds to your local or state PTA? So many good things happen when we have the financial support necessary to do programming, training, and advocacy.

Any way you choose to create and craft your legacy, I’d like to thank you. Thank you for joining our organization! Thank you for giving your time, talent, and treasure to benefit your community, and the students and families who live there. Thank you for continuing PTA’s legacy today, tomorrow, together!

Happy Founders’ Day,

Heather Ippolito
California State PTA President

A Message from President-Elect Will Sanford

February is a meaningful month for PTA – one that honors our history, highlights our ongoing efforts to positively impact education today, and affirms our continued commitment to meet the future needs of children and families. We celebrate our founders, remarkable women, who 129 years ago started our organization, before they had the right to vote. For more than half of our nation’s history, PTA has championed the well-being of children. We celebrate the impact we have collectively made, including implementation of child labor laws, a free appropriate public education for all, late start high school and much, much more. Today, we are working to ensure that every child can learn in a safe, healthy school environment where all individuals are treated with respect. We have been, and continue to be, a strong advocacy voice for all children and families.

The PTA has always been about leaving the world a better place.. We consider how our actions today will impact future generations-supporting evidence-based practices, building inclusive communities and ensuring that all children have the resources and support they need to make our world a better place.

As PTA members, we are charged with raising awareness, fostering inclusion, seeking support, and actively recruiting members. At times, it may feel as though we face significant challenges in making our voices heard. Yet consider the late 1800s, when communicating across our state took days, weeks or even months- and only reached those who could read and were willing to pay attention to children’s issues.

Our founders believed that all children should have the opportunity to live a healthy life, receive an education, and contribute to their community. It is our turn to continue and expand the legacy they began, ensuring that future generations inherit a world that we would all want to live in.

Join us in celebrating Founders’ Day as we honor the efforts of those who began this work. Help us continue to expand our reach today so that, tomorrow, all children and families can benefit from our collective efforts.

I appreciate everything you do-whether it’s reading to your children, getting them to school on time to maximize learning, supporting your neighbors and teachers, or ensuring all families feel seen and included. You make us strong…today, tomorrow and especially together.

Will Sanford
California State PTA President-Elect

Helping Your Student Open Doors to College and Careers

Posted on by Lydia Vi

Message from California State PTA Sponsor, College Board

As a parent, you play a powerful role in shaping your child’s future. When families are engaged—asking questions, encouraging exploration, and helping students plan ahead—students are more likely to graduate from high school ready for college and careers. At the College Board, we believe access and opportunity grow when parents and schools work together.

One meaningful way to support your student is by helping them challenge themselves academically in high school. Advanced Placement (AP) courses give students the chance to tackle college-level work, build confidence, and develop critical thinking and time-management skills. Research consistently shows that students who take AP are more likely to enroll in college and graduate on time. Beyond academics, AP can help students stand out in college admissions and, in many cases, earn college credit, saving families time and money.

Parents can also help students connect today’s coursework to tomorrow’s goals. BigFuture, the College Board’s free planning platform, offers tools to explore careers, search for colleges, understand financial aid, and track important milestones. Through the BigFuture Scholarships program, students can earn chances for scholarship awards simply by completing key college-planning steps—like building a college list or submitting the FAFSA®—no GPA or test score required.

Your encouragement matters. Talk with your student about their interests, meet with school counselors, and explore AP and BigFuture together. By staying involved and informed, you help expand what’s possible—giving your student greater access to higher education, meaningful careers, and the opportunities they deserve after high school.

California State PTA is a nonprofit and non-commercial volunteer organization and does not endorse any product, publication, or business associated with sponsorship partners.

Apply Now for Graduating Senior Scholarships 

Posted on by Lydia Vi

By the California State Scholarships and Grants Committee

Do you know a student who might be interested in applying for one of California State PTA’s Graduating High School Senior Scholarships? Now is the time to apply; the application deadline is February 1! 

Students submit one application for the $1,000 Volunteer Service Scholarship; from that applicant pool, two students planning to enter a medical field will also receive the additional $500 Dr. Ralph E. White Scholarship.

  • $1,000 Volunteer Service Scholarship – This scholarship recognizes graduating seniors for their volunteer service in schools and communities and provides funds to enroll in courses at accredited colleges, universities, trade or technical schools. Applicants must be PTA members graduating from a California high school between now and June 30, 2026. Seniors who are graduating from a non-PTA high school may still apply if they are serving on the board of a council or district PTA. 
  • $500 Dr. Ralph E. White Graduating Senior Scholarship – Honoring the volunteer and public-service legacy of Dr. Ralph E. White and his wife, Eleanor, this additional scholarship provides $500 each to two successful applicants of the Volunteer Service Scholarship who intend to pursue a career in a medical field. 

Be sure to include the following items in the application:

  • Proof of PTA membership
  • Descriptive essay fully answering the questions asked regarding PTA volunteering and experience, service to other organizations or individuals, career plans, job experience, and any other information the student feels would be valuable to the scholarship selection committee.
  • Two completed reference forms and letters are required, written specifically for this application. The first reference is to be written by a community volunteer leader unrelated to the student and who has supervised the student’s volunteer service. The second reference is to be written by a member of the high school faculty.

Applications, reference forms/letters, and all supporting documents must be submitted online at capta.org/graduating-high-school-seniors by 11:59 pm February 1, 2026. All applicants are notified of their application results in March. Scholarship winners will receive a letter of congratulations from California State PTA along with a check.

For additional information, please visit the Graduating Seniors Scholarship web page or email the CA State PTA Scholarships & Grants Committee at scholarships@capta.org.

All applications must be submitted online. Find all information at capta.org/scholarships/graduating-high-school-seniors. 

Application window closes Feb 1, 2026 at 11:59 pm.

Your Voice Is Powerful—Here’s How to Use It

Posted on by Lydia Vi

By the California State PTA Education Commission and Legislative Advocacy Team

Speak up. Show up. Use your voice. Because when we work together, every child’s potential becomes reality.

Every time you speak up for your child, you’re using your voice as an advocate. Have you asked your child’s teacher for extra help with math? Spoken to the principal about crosswalk safety? Contacted your school board about budget priorities? That’s your voice in action—and it matters.

We use our voices every day to advocate for what we want, need, and believe in – at doctor’s appointments, at work, and in our communities. Advocacy isn’t reserved for professionals in suits roaming the halls of Congress. It’s something we do naturally.

PTA helps you direct that voice to support the children and families who need it most—and amplifies it so decision-makers hear you.

Advocacy Driven by Our Members

In a time of deep polarization and frustration, PTA offers something rare: a nonpartisan, nonsectarian space where people can unite around shared values for children. Outside interests or individuals don’t drive our advocacy—you drive it.

California State PTA’s legislative work is guided by resolutions and position statements created and adopted by our members. When delegates vote at our Annual Meeting, they set the direction for statewide advocacy. This means the issues we champion come directly from families and communities across California—not from any political party or outside agenda.

Using Your Voice at Every Level

How can you use your voice through the PTA? Members have opportunities at every level—from your own school to the halls of Congress.

Individual advocacy begins at home and in the classroom. When you attend a parent-teacher conference, ask questions at a school board meeting, or share concerns with your principal, you’re using your voice for your child. Your personal experience and perspective matter—no one knows your child and community better than you do.

Local PTAs translate individual concerns into collective action that can support all children. Together, members address campus-specific needs: safer drop-off procedures, healthier cafeteria options, and more inclusive programming. Local units, councils, and districts also build relationships with school district officials and city councils, ensuring families have a seat at every table where decisions about children are made.

State advocacy amplifies your voice in Sacramento. California State PTA has championed landmark legislation protecting children and supporting families—from later school start times to safe schools protections. When local PTAs identify patterns affecting students statewide, state advocacy teams work to support laws, regulations, and policies to create impact.

National PTA coordinates advocacy across all fifty states, speaking before Congress and federal agencies on issues like education funding, child nutrition, and school safety. Each year, National PTA publishes policy priorities that guide our collective work, ensuring millions of members speak for every child with one voice.

Your Voice Matters

The beauty of PTA advocacy is that every level strengthens the others. When you mention a concern to your local PTA president, you might spark a statewide initiative. When you sign up for action alerts, your voice joins thousands pressing for change.

You don’t need special training or expertise. You already have everything you need: your experience as a parent, family member, educator, or community member who cares about children.

PTA was founded in 1897 by women who understood the power of individual action to change the world for all children. That legacy continues through you.

Take the Next Step

Ready to use your voice for every child? Join us at California State PTA’s Legislative Conference (LegCon) on February 2-3, 2026 in Sacramento for two transformative days of legislative training and direct advocacy. You’ll learn how the legislative process works, connect with fellow advocates from across the state, and meet with lawmakers who make decisions affecting our children every day.

Can’t make it to Sacramento? Connect with the California State PTA Legislation and Advocacy Team throughout 2026. Sign up for action alerts, attend virtual trainings, and add your voice to campaigns that matter. Visit capta.org/advocacy to learn more.

Speak up. Show up. Use your voice. Because when we work together, every child’s potential becomes reality.

Share the Gift of PTA this New Year

Posted on by Lydia Vi

By the California State PTA Convention Commission

As we welcome a new year, we are reminded that every January brings fresh opportunities to renew our commitment to children, families, and public education. The Gift of PTA is not just something we give during one season; it is a year-round dedication to advocacy, service, and community connection that continues to strengthen schools across California.

The new year is an ideal time to reflect on our impact and set intentions for the months ahead. Through our collective efforts, PTA members give the gift of leadership, collaboration, and support, creating meaningful change in the lives of students and families.

Ways to Share the Gift of PTA in the New Year

  1. Grow Our Membership: A new year brings new families and fresh occasions to invite parents, caregivers, educators, and community members to join PTA and be part of a united voice advocating for every child’s success.
  2. Recognize Excellence: The PTA Honorary Service Awards and other recognitions provide an opportunity to start the year by celebrating individuals and organizations whose dedication makes a difference. Recognition reinforces the value of service and inspires continued involvement.
  3. Give the Gift of Time and Talent: Whether volunteering at events, mentoring emerging leaders, or sharing professional expertise, every contribution matters. The new year is a perfect time to encourage members to step into leadership roles and strengthen PTA at every level.
  4. Empower Student Voices: Programs such as Reflections and student leadership opportunities allow young people to express their creativity and perspectives. Supporting student voices helps develop confident, engaged leaders for the future.
  5. Build Stronger Connections: Strengthen partnerships with local agencies, civic leaders, and businesses to expand PTA’s reach and impact. Collaboration ensures sustainable programs and reinforces PTA’s role as a trusted community partner.
  6. Celebrate and Share Impact: Share your PTA’s successes through newsletters, social media, and community outreach. Highlighting accomplishments not only celebrates progress but also invites others to join the mission.

As we look ahead, the new year offers a renewed sense of purpose and possibility. Each act of service, every partnership formed, and every member engaged represents a gift that strengthens our schools and communities.

Together, we enter the year with optimism, dedication, and a shared vision for the future.

We look forward to seeing you at our California State PTA Convention 2026 in Fresno where every voice, every member, and every gift continues to make a difference.