A Message from California State PTA President Heather Ippolito
The month of May is full of sweet events! Week of the Teacher, Mother’s Day, and of course, the California State PTA Convention! These events give us the opportunity to recognize key people in our lives.
Teachers are the heart of the education system. We all can think of a teacher or mentor who made a difference in our lives. Someone who believed in us when we didn’t believe in ourselves. A person who made a complex task seem doable through their instruction. I hope you take time this month to reach out to an educator and say thank you. Even if your children are no longer in the TK-12 school system, find a mentor in your life and let them know how much they are appreciated.
Another key celebration this month is Mother’s day. I don’t know where I’d be without the examples set by my amazing mother and grandmothers. Motherhood is a huge responsibility and the weight of it is something you carry your entire life. Take time this month to let a mom know that they are doing a good job. Just hearing, “You’re doing great!” can make a mom’s day.
Finally, May 1-3, local leaders from across the state joined together in Fresno to learn, be inspired by amazing speakers, and expand our circle by connecting with new people. I am so thankful to everyone who joined us, for the volunteers who worked the event, for the incredible Board of Managers and Board of Directors who planned and put on this massive event, and for our staff who supported us every step of the way. Make plans to join us next year in Ontari-OH YEAH from April 30-May 2 so you can be part of the celebration!
Happy May, and thank you for all you do for the children, youth and families in California today, tomorrow, together!
Warmly,
Heather
Heather Ippolito
California State PTA President
A Message from President-Elect Will Sanford
One of the most powerful skills that our children need is the ability to read and truly understand what they are reading. Literacy is a skill that helps level the playing field, as it provides access to information and knowledge- whether from a book or a computer screen. It gives individuals the power to learn.
Literacy is more than sounding out words on a page. It is the ability to understand the meaning of words, analyze how those words and sentences may impact you, and influence the decisions you make. We read for many purposes, including enjoying creative fiction and poetry, completing class work, filling out job applications, and understanding election ballots. Literacy influences nearly every aspect of life.
Literacy promotes independent thinking, and we want to ensure that all children can access and use that personal power to be the best they can be. We encourage you to read with your child, talk about what you read, explore words and their meanings, and discuss how language can be used to encourage and discourage others. In a world increasingly shaped by digital content and Artificial Intelligence, our children must be equipped to not only read, but to analyze and appropriately use information.
As Edward Bulwer-Lytton wrote, “The pen is mightier than the sword.” Words shape ideas, decisions, and communities. When children learn to read with understanding, they gain the power to think critically and participate as informed citizens. Literacy is not just an academic skill, it is the foundation of responsible citizenship. By nurturing strong readers today, we help prepare engaged leaders for tomorrow.
Will Sanford
California State PTA President-Elect