Advocacy Update for 2/10/19
Post date: Feb 10, 2019 6:38:55 PM
TAKE ACTION!
PTA supports the Governor’s budget request to fund full-day kindergarten. PTA has supported early childhood education since its inception, and it remains a top priority of the association to ensure that every child has access to early learning opportunities. Kindergarten serves our children, our families, and our community.
One way to show support to legislators is through clicking on this link which will let you send an email to your legislators to secure full-day kindergarten for the kids in the entire state! PTA/PTSA are a wonderful avenue for sharing this information and the link, particularly parents of elementary age students. If you decide to do so, please let our Public Policy Director know by sending an email to legislative@copta.org.
Jeffco Board of Education talks Budget
At the February 7th BOE meeting discussions about the budget began. To learn more about the budget you can visit the district's website or read the board minutes.
To add your thoughts, questions, or concerns, please e-mail the BOE at board@jeffco.k12.co.us.
Keeping up on Sate Legislation
The Colorado PTA’s Legislative Committee is busy tracking bills introduced in the State Legislature (General Assembly). We select bills to follow that fit in with our Legislative Priorities. You can look on the Colorado PTA website under Legislative Committee, to find the list of bills we have identified to track. This will be updated twice a month after the Legislative Committee meetings on the 2nd and 4th Mondays. We have already testified on more than 10 high-priority bills!
What's important for you to know about this week at the Capitol?
Governor Polis made the case for funding full-day kindergarten to the Joint Education Committee on Wednesday morning, stating that the time is now and the funding mechanisms are sustainable for full-day kindergarten to be fully funded in Colorado. Insider tip: the Joint Education Committee meets every Wednesday at 7:30 a.m., and the topics are often very interesting. You can find archives and listen in live by clicking on "House Education" on this page.
In House Education, HB19-1066 Counting Special Education In Graduation Rates passed with a vote of 12-0 and HB19-1100 Prohibit Use Restriction On School District Property passed with a vote of 12-1.
Want to learn how to be a better advocate for your child(ren) and schools?
Advocacy Training - Lunch & Learn
Monday, February 11, 11:30 - 1:00, Great Ed Office
You know your voice matters at the Capitol, but how do you make sure it's heard? Bring your lunch and come hear from Senator Michael Merrifield about the best ways to engage your legislators. Sign up here!