Each fall, Washington State PTA votes on a priority platform; this then guides our legislative advocacy in the state. The process started last June when members submitted 20-some proposals for consideration. Some were merged, others reworked. In July, the legislative committee reviewed and forwarded to the board of directors those that align with PTA’s body of positions and that advance our work on behalf of all children. The board made its final decisions; in all, it will forward 18 issues for delegates to consider Oct. 19 and 20 at WSPTA’s annual Legislative Assembly.
This year the Washington State PTA is starting a new 2-year cycle with all-new issues. Delegates will first vote on whether to place an issue on the platform; then delegates will vote on a Top 5. More staff time and resources go to Top 5 priorities.
Here is a link to the WSPTA website which provides information regarding each issue: http://wsptalegassembly.blogspot.com/
The following categories are being considered:
Budget and Funding
• Fund Education First
• Complete Solution for K-12 Funding
• Revenue for Kids
Equity and Access
• Access, Opportunity and Equity for Special Education
• Closing the Opportunity Gaps
• Access to Algebra in Middle School
Instructional Support
• Universal Access to Fully Prepared, Effective Teachers
• Instructional Support for English Language Learners
• Training to Support Highly Capable Learners
• Screening and Instruction of Struggling Readers
Safety Issues
• School Zone Signage
• Neighborhood Safe Speeds
Positive learning environments
• Positive Behavior Interventions and Support
• Social Emotional Learning: Don’t SEL Our Kids Short
System Changes
• Advance Basic Education Reforms
• Access to Quality Early Learning
• Great Family Engagement in Every School
• Standards-Based Grading
Please see following blog post for the link to an important parent survey. The survey closes on September 30th.
No comments yet.