National PTA Hosts Call-in Day for Family Engagement in Education Act of 2011

PTA | For Immediate Release

National PTA Hosts Call-in Day for Family Engagement in Education Act of 2011

Attendees Urge Members of Congress to Cosponsor S.941/H.R. 1821

ORLANDO, FLA. (June 10, 2011)- Today, National PTA® is hosting a “National Call-in Day” in support of S.941/H.R.1821, the Family Engagement in Education Act of 2011. During its national convention in Orlando, Fla., and through an email action alert to members today, the association asked members to urge their Members of Congress to cosponsor bipartisan legislation that would improve the lives of millions of children and families. The legislation would strengthen family engagement in the reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, which both Congress and the Administration have placed as a top priority this year. The bill would provide incentives to districts and schools to implement best practices, such as parent leadership academies, place family engagement coordinators in schools, and provide professional development for educators on how to partner with families. The bill was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by Representatives Todd Russell Platts (R-PA/19) and Carolyn McCarthy (D-NY/4), and in the U.S. Senate by Senators Jack Reed (D-RI) and Christopher Coons (D-DE). In addition, tomorrow, Saturday, June 11, National PTA will host a second Family Engagement in Education Act call to action during the convention with a “National Postcard Campaign.” Convention attendees will sign postcards addressed to their Congressional Representative to urge them to cosponsor H.R.1821. The postcards will be delivered directly to Capitol Hill. 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.