ALEXANDRIA, Va., (Jan. 12, 2016) — This evening, President Barack Obama delivered the annual State of the Union address, outlining his vision for America’s future. In the address, President Obama highlighted several of National PTA’s key concerns and priorities related to the education and safety of all children.
“We understand and believe that opportunity starts and ends with access to a great education,” said Laura Bay, president of National PTA. “National PTA applauds President Obama for acknowledging the importance of ensuring that all children receive a high-quality education that enables them to reach their full potential and prepares them for long-term success.”
National PTA echoes President Obama’s support of the Every Student Succeeds Act. This landmark legislation—which reauthorized the long overdue Elementary and Secondary Education Act/No Child Left Behind (ESEA/NCLB)—brings needed improvements to K-12 education and recognizes the impact of family engagement on student outcomes. National PTA agrees with the president in that we need to work together at the federal, state and local levels to build on this progress and make certain that the law makes a difference for the futures of our nation’s children.
As the president also conveyed in his remarks, it is essential that meaningful changes are made to ensure all children have a positive and safe environment to live, learn and thrive. Eliminating violence and incidences of bullying in schools and communities is a critical priority for all parents, educators and students.
“Our children are the future of this nation, and PTA is committed to creating equity, opportunity and safety for every child,” added Nathan R. Monell, CAE, executive director of National PTA. “National PTA remains dedicated to working with the administration and Congress to make sure all children have the opportunity to grow and achieve through education and make every child’s potential a reality.”
About National PTA
National PTA® comprises millions of families, students, teachers, administrators, and business and community leaders devoted to the educational success of children and the promotion of parent involvement in schools. PTA is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit association that prides itself on being a powerful voice for all children, a relevant resource for families and communities, and a strong advocate for public education. Membership in PTA is open to anyone who wants to be involved and make a difference for the education, health, and welfare of children and youth.
