Virginia PTA

To make every child’s potential a reality. Our Vision

We urgently need to draw the attention of legislators to the Public Education crisis in Virginia. VA ranks 5 th in Fourth Grade Reading VA ranks 9 th in Fourth Grade Math Average teacher salary ranks 37 th VA ranks 39 th among all states in per pupil funding from the state

Polls have shown that the public strongly support the idea that public education for kids should be a priority. However, quality public education has not been a priority for our lawmakers.

The Virginia PTA and the Virginia Education Association (VEA) have partnered to change the conversation around funding for Public Education in Virginia.

The Partnership Begins Teachers and Parents Messaging Goals Strategy Concerns

We will gather in Richmond on April 18 th at the “Put Kids First” rally to demonstrate the massive support for better funding of public education in the state. We will demand that lawmakers put our kids first.

If we sit down and do nothing but complain, then nothing will change. As separate individuals, our voices don’t ever get heard. But as a group-VEA members, the PTA, the community - we have a lot of power.

Goals of the Campaign Show widespread support for our public schools. Influence the Governor’s budget. Elect legislators who Put Kids First. Begin to Repair the Damage to PK-12.

Four Core Issues The Cost of Underfunding Class Size Quality Early Childhood Education Our Over-Tested Kids

Stay informed by going on the “Put Kids First” website. virginia.org/putkidsf irst

Stories from the Trenches Stories make an impact. Ask people to tell you their stories. Use them in your messaging. Stories from our campaign: Underfunding Class size Over Testing Pre-K

Current Projects Virginia Beach Giles County Prince William Loudoun Chesterfield

What Can YOU Do? Visit the campaign web site for updates and information. Connect with your local Education Association and PTA. Create/participate in Community Partnerships (Churches, Community Groups, other Associations, etc.) and work together to bring our message to lawmakers. Contact your legislators and demand they Put Kids First.

“When teachers speak up #Game on When parents speak up #Game over” Diane Ravitch