LEGISLATIVE/ADVOCACY
“To secure adequate laws for the care and protection of children
and youth” – The third object of the PTA requires that parent
leaders and local PTA units engage in legislative and advocacy activities.
What is Advocacy?
Advocacy is defined as "The act of pleading or arguing in favor
of something, such as a cause, idea, or policy-- active support."
NC PTA Advocacy Priorities
NC PTA Advocacy Guide
Basic Steps to Advocacy
- Identify the issue
- Find out the facts about the issue
- Gather support for the issue
- Take the issue to the person or organization who has the ability
to address and/or resolve the issue
Basic Do's and Don'ts
- Every issue has equal value
- Keep an open mind
- Accept all help and advice
- No "blame game"
- Leave personal "baggage" at home
- Do not ignore a PTA member's concerns - address each one
Parent's Fears About Advocacy
"I don't have time to get involved in issues"
"If I take a position on this issue, the school will take it out
on my child"
"I don't want my name on any document"
"The politicians don't care about my school or my child"
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