The Washington State Parent Teacher Association held its 37th Annual Legislative Assembly in Olympia on October 24th. There, delegates met to add supported legislative issues to the 2015-16 legislative session in support of the organizational vision of “Making every child’s potential a reality.” The 2015-16 legislative platform continues to support the delivery of the association’s vision and mission.
In all, two new supported issues were voted in favor of; in addition to the five short-term legislative issues. As a whole child advocacy association, the priority issues represent education, health, well-being, and safety for all children in Washington State.
WSPTA Newly Supported Priorities (click hyperlinks for more information)
- Improving Educational Outcomes for Foster Children
- Career Development and Training for Paraeducators
WSPTA Top Five Priorities
- Funding McCleary
- Create Positive School Climates through Social Emotional Learning
- Increasing Capital Funding
- Increased Access to Higher Education
- Breakfast after the Bell
Resolution
The Washington State PTA Board of Directors approved and voted unanimously a funding McCleary resolution. This was also briefed and highlighted as a take action during Legislative Assembly.
What can you do? Legislators and the governor need to hear from you and your PTAs. You can take action by having your PTA adopt the Paramount Duty Resolution and follow up with a letter to Governor Inslee and legislators. For details, visit the WSPTA Advocacy webpage; download the sample letter here.
Submitted by Kim Alessi, Director of Legislation
For details and information about WSPTA priorities visit www.highlandterracepta.org/category/legislative/
-Kim Alessi, Legislative Director