Kim Nesbitt

Co-President

425.844.2696

Leanne Christensen

Co-President

206.280.9088
Text Box: On Wednesday, February 13, hundreds of PTA members from throughout Washington State traveled to our state capitol in Olympia to visit with their elected legislators. Many other members who were not able to travel to Olympia sent email messages and telephoned legislators using the legislative hotline to emphasize the importance of our WSPTA legislative priorities and to seek action on issues that affect the children of Washington State. The 2008 Focus Day event included an address from Governor Christine Gregoire, reports from legislators, a presentation from the Washington State Ombudsman, and personal meetings with legislators. Governor Gregoire thanked PTA members for all the work they do on behalf of children and encouraged them to continue speaking in Olympia and working with legislators. Representative Skip Priest talked with members about the work of the Basic Education Finance task force and highlighted the need to work together for the future of Education. Other BEF task force members participated in a question and answer session. The Washington State Office of the Education Ombudsman provided a presentation about its mission and the services they provide to families. If you missed Focus Day, you can still contact your legislators by telephone or email. The Washington State PTA provides an easy to use tool that can help you find and email your legislators. It’s available online at: http://capwiz.com/npta2/wa/home/ Find out more about the WSPTA legislative platform and our advocacy on behalf of the children of Washington State at www.wastatepta.org/legislation.htm. Members can also sign up for PTA’s electronic newsletter The Grassroots Connection and receive timely Action Alerts about legislation pending in Olympia. Remember, YOU are the expert on how public policy will affect YOUR child and YOUR community. So let your elected officials know what you think! Need more info? Contact Kathy Klein, Tolt PTSA Legislative Chair.