Join hosts Angelee Aedo (VP of Advocacy) and Mike Williams (Director of Communications) as they welcome new co-host Corey Fairholm, Utah PTA's Immediate Past President! Corey shares her perspective serving on the National PTA Membership Committee and reveals how Utah's 70,000 members are part of a powerful nationwide movement.

Discover how PTA membership creates real impact beyond your local school. From preventing the withholding of federal education funding to ensuring safe walking routes, learn how collective advocacy makes legislators listen. Corey breaks down myths about national PTA membership and explains why having a seat at the table matters for Utah families.

Hear about incredible resources available through NationalPTA.org, from the Thrive training program to the "Myths and Facts" document changing conversations at back-to-school nights across Utah.

Utah PTA Mission: To make every child's potential a reality by engaging and empowering families and communities to advocate for all children.

Key Points

Why Membership Matters

• Utah PTA's 70,000 members amplify advocacy at state and federal levels
• Membership gives PTA powerful voice representing millions when addressing legislators
• Numbers create leverage for school safety, education funding, and safe walking routes

National PTA Connection

• National PTA represents all 50 states, plus Europe and Puerto Rico
• Utah operates at Tier One status due to strong membership numbers
• Applications for national committee positions open annually (due in October)

Resources Available

• NationalPTA.org offers free resources including Thrive training program
• Membership Minute videos, Membership Mania campaigns, "Myths and Facts" documents
• National and state PTA leader Facebook groups for collaboration

Real Impact

• National PTA successfully advocated for release of withheld federal education funds
• PTA established kindergarten and school lunch programs throughout history
• States share successful programs and resources nationwide

Takeaways

For Parents & Community:

• $8 local membership connects you to 128-year legacy of child advocacy
• Access national resources with your regular PTA login (no additional fee needed)
• Small local involvement contributes to large-scale change

For PTA Leaders:

• Explore NationalPTA.org for ready-to-use campaigns and training
• Join National PTA Facebook groups to connect with leaders nationwide
• Use "Myths and Facts" document at back-to-school events

For Everyone:

• PTA's strength lies in unified mission across all levels
• Leadership rotates every two years, creating opportunities for new voices
• Being "at the table" requires collective power of membership