Utah PTA Pulse Podcast

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

Advocacy doesn't have to be intimidating! Join VP of Advocacy Angelee Aedo and Immediate Past President Corey Fairholm as they break down practical ways to engage with legislators during Utah's interim session. Learn why NOW is the critical time to build relationships, how to attend committee meetings (in-person or online), and simple strategies to invite legislators into your school community. From reading to students to attending bike parades, discover how small actions create big impact. Whether you're new to advocacy or a seasoned volunteer, this episode empowers you to step out of your comfort zone and advocate for every child.

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

• Interim session (now through November) is when the real legislative work happens - bills are written, discussed, and shaped before the January session
• Legislators are regular people - they have other jobs and want to hear from constituents
• Start building relationships NOW - text, email, or attend town halls to open dialogue before the busy session
• Invite legislators to your school - ask them to read to classes, attend assemblies, walk to school with kids, or observe lunch
• Attend interim committee meetings - available online and in-person at le.utah.gov
• Find your legislator - visit le.utah.gov to identify your representatives and access their contact information

Takeaways

✓ Always thank legislators for their service when reaching out ✓ Be specific about concerns - reference particular bill sections, not just emotions ✓ Keep inviting legislators even if they decline - persistence shows importance ✓ Every school should have an advocacy person - maybe that's you! ✓ Start local: city council, school board, and mayor are great places to practice advocacy ✓ PTA celebrates 100 years of advocacy - still fighting for clean water, school safety, and child welfare ✓ You don't need to agree on everything to build a productive relationship ✓ "Be less afraid" - step slightly outside your comfort zone this year

Welcome to Season 3 of the Utah PTA Pulse Podcast! Hosts Angelee Aedo (VP of Advocacy), Corey Fairholm (Immediate Past President), and producer Mike Williams share essential guidance for PTA leaders launching the new school year.

This episode covers membership drives, building principal partnerships, budget management, and volunteer recruitment. Discover how PTAs solve real problems—like innovative "bike bus" programs addressing absenteeism—and why mission-focused planning prevents burnout.

The mission of the PTA is to make every child's potential a reality by engaging and empowering families and communities to advocate for all children. This episode shows how effective leadership turns that mission into daily action.

Key Points

Getting Started

• Hold membership drives using QR codes and flyers
• Approve budget by August 31st before spending
• Update bank signers with documented meeting minutes
• Schedule regular principal meetings starting early

Building Relationships

• Meet principals in pairs for support
• Build connections with school secretaries
• Ask "why" to understand policies when facing resistance
• Serve on School Community Council to identify needs

Mission-Focused Planning

• Evaluate every event against PTA's mission
• Be flexible and cancel traditions that no longer fit
• Focus on solving real problems like literacy or safety
• Example: Parent-led "bike bus" helps students get to school safely

Volunteer Recruitment

• Give personal invitations
• Create time-commitment lists so people know expectations
• Welcome everyone: parents, grandparents, community members
• Target kindergarten events to engage new families

Takeaways

✓ Get budget approved and bank signers updated immediately ✓ Build genuine principal partnerships through regular communication ✓ Align activities with making every child's potential a reality ✓ Be realistic about capacity to avoid volunteer burnout ✓ Partner with School Community Council for real solutions ✓ Reach out to region and state PTA volunteers for support ✓ Stay "PTA flexible"—adapt while staying mission-focused

Take it one day at a time and focus on what matters most for your community!

Join hosts Angelee Aedo and Cammy Whitchurch with special guest Cindy Gerhardt, National PTA's Healthy Minds Ambassador, for a powerful conversation about mental health and children's emotional wellbeing. Recorded at Utah PTA's convention, this episode explores how PTA leaders can identify struggling children, start conversations about anxiety and mental health, and access National PTA's Healthy Minds resources.

Cindy shares her journey from carnival chair to national ambassador, revealing how childhood trauma informed her passion for mental health advocacy. Learn about post-2020 impacts on resilience, practical strategies for addressing anxiety and grief, and why mental health deserves equal attention to physical health.

Key Points

• Mental health equals physical health: Sound mental health is critical for children reaching their potential
• Post-2020 crisis: Resilience dropped dramatically; self-harm and suicide rates require urgent attention
• Hidden struggles: Children facing unstable housing or trauma often go unseen while we focus on programs
• National resources: Anxiety assessments, conversation starters, grief materials (Sesame Street partnership), grant funding for wellness initiatives
• Model vulnerability: Adults sharing struggles appropriately teaches children empathy and healthy coping
• Social media impact: Readiness matters before giving children platform access
• Cindy's motto: "All children are our children"—see beyond your own family

Takeaways

For PTA Leaders:

• Apply for Healthy Minds grants for calming rooms, yoga classes, wellness fairs
• Visit pta.org for free anxiety assessments, talking points, grief support
• Register for National PTA's virtual convention (June) featuring mental health workshops
• Celebrate small wins—30 attendees means 30 children with better opportunities
• Serve on state committees to deepen PTA knowledge and connections

For Parents and Caregivers:

• Practice self-care—you can't pour from an empty cup
• Start mental health conversations; eliminate stigma at home
• Share struggles appropriately: "I had a tough day and didn't handle this well"
• Teach children Sesame Street's grief tool: hug yourself and affirm "I'm still me"
• Balance feelings with resilience—acknowledge emotions, then move forward positively

For School Communities:

• Try the "five adults" model: staff members make daily positive contact with assigned student groups
• Look beyond surfaces—struggling families may hide behind nice appearances
• Validate volunteers' efforts; they're not alone
• Attend state conventions—first-timers leave validated and energized

Remember: Every child is in your circle of influence for a reason. PTA's 127-year mission of protecting children continues—only the challenges have evolved from mines to mental health.

Join hosts Angelee Aedo and Cammy Whitchurch as they welcome Jenny Taylor, Utah PTA's Military Family Specialist, for an eye-opening conversation about the hidden challenges military families face in our schools. Whether you're a PTA leader, teacher, or engaged parent, this episode reveals why every school has military-connected children—and how your community can better support them.

Jenny shares powerful insights from her personal experience as a National Guard spouse and mother of seven, explaining the unique struggles of both active-duty families who relocate every 2-3 years and National Guard families whose loved ones deploy repeatedly. You'll discover practical strategies for identifying military families, creating welcoming environments, and building inclusive volunteer opportunities that work for all families—not just military ones.

This conversation goes beyond military families to address universal challenges: single parents, working parents, families facing illness or loss, and anyone feeling disconnected from their school community. Learn how small gestures of inclusion can transform a child's educational experience and strengthen your entire PTA.

Key Points

• Military families are everywhere: Utah has 7,000 airmen at Hill Air Force Base plus 7,000 National Guard/Reserve soldiers scattered throughout the state
• Two distinct challenges: Active-duty families move every 2-3 years; National Guard families stay put but face repeated deployments
• Identification matters: Create opportunities for families to self-identify through Veterans Day photo walls, back-to-school tables, or registration forms
• Fast-track involvement: Military families on 2-3 year timelines can't "climb the PTA ladder"—invite them to lead from day one
• Flexible volunteering: Offer at-home options like cutting materials, sharpening pencils, or contributing to potlucks for overwhelmed parents
• Universal application: Strategies for military families benefit ALL families facing stress, absence, or transition

Takeaways

For PTA Leaders:

• Ask new families: "How long have you been here? Where did you come from? What worked well at your previous school?"
• Create a "volunteer menu" with options ranging from leadership roles to simple at-home tasks
• Don't assume families know they're welcome—extend personal invitations to participate
• Recognize that families unable to attend meetings may still want to contribute meaningfully

For School Communities:

• Military families bring diverse experiences from schools worldwide—tap into their knowledge
• A stable school routine provides crucial support for children experiencing family upheaval
• The same parent who can't volunteer this year (due to deployment) may become your biggest asset next year
• Inclusion isn't just about military families—it's about creating space for every family's unique circumstances

Remember: The strategies that support military families create stronger, more inclusive PTAs for everyone. When we make room for the overwhelmed parent, the new family, and the non-traditional schedule, every child benefits.

Join hosts Angelee Aedo and Cammy Whitchurch as they welcome Jenny Taylor, Utah PTA's Military Family Specialist, for an eye-opening conversation about the hidden challenges military families face in our schools. Whether you're a PTA leader, teacher, or engaged parent, this episode reveals why every school has military-connected children—and how your community can better support them.

Jenny shares powerful insights from her personal experience as a National Guard spouse and mother of seven, explaining the unique struggles of both active-duty families who relocate every 2-3 years and National Guard families whose loved ones deploy repeatedly. You'll discover practical strategies for identifying military families, creating welcoming environments, and building inclusive volunteer opportunities that work for all families—not just military ones.

This conversation goes beyond military families to address universal challenges: single parents, working parents, families facing illness or loss, and anyone feeling disconnected from their school community. Learn how small gestures of inclusion can transform a child's educational experience and strengthen your entire PTA.

Key Points

• Military families are everywhere: Utah has 7,000 airmen at Hill Air Force Base plus 7,000 National Guard/Reserve soldiers scattered throughout the state
• Two distinct challenges: Active-duty families move every 2-3 years; National Guard families stay put but face repeated deployments
• Identification matters: Create opportunities for families to self-identify through Veterans Day photo walls, back-to-school tables, or registration forms
• Fast-track involvement: Military families on 2-3 year timelines can't "climb the PTA ladder"—invite them to lead from day one
• Flexible volunteering: Offer at-home options like cutting materials, sharpening pencils, or contributing to potlucks for overwhelmed parents
• Universal application: Strategies for military families benefit ALL families facing stress, absence, or transition

Takeaways

For PTA Leaders:

• Ask new families: "How long have you been here? Where did you come from? What worked well at your previous school?"
• Create a "volunteer menu" with options ranging from leadership roles to simple at-home tasks
• Don't assume families know they're welcome—extend personal invitations to participate
• Recognize that families unable to attend meetings may still want to contribute meaningfully

For School Communities:

• Military families bring diverse experiences from schools worldwide—tap into their knowledge
• A stable school routine provides crucial support for children experiencing family upheaval
• The same parent who can't volunteer this year (due to deployment) may become your biggest asset next year
• Inclusion isn't just about military families—it's about creating space for every family's unique circumstances

Remember: The strategies that support military families create stronger, more inclusive PTAs for everyone. When we make room for the overwhelmed parent, the new family, and the non-traditional schedule, every child benefits.

Join hosts Angelee Aedo and Cammy Whitchurch with special guest Julie Cliff (Utah PTA President-Elect) for essential guidance on ending your PTA year strong. While end-of-year tasks might feel like checking boxes, these final weeks are crucial for building sustainable PTAs. Julie shares insights on why procedure books matter, balancing responsibilities while empowering incoming leaders, and celebrating accomplishments. Learn practical strategies for graceful transitions whether you're wrapping up, stepping in, or supporting multiple schools.

Key Points

• Procedure books are essential: Even a simple summary of what worked, budget details, and helpful contacts is invaluable—delegate creation to committee chairs
• Set successors up for success: Share programs, processes, and systems; give incoming leaders early access to learn
• Navigate the transition carefully: Outgoing leaders need space to finish; incoming leaders need time to learn—respect both through communication
• Don't disappear: Answer your successor's questions in fall; your guidance matters beyond your term
• Reflect on goals: Review accomplishments and share insights with members and incoming boards
• Appreciate everyone: Thank volunteers, teachers, and community partners
• Use resources: Consult the President's Handbook for checklists; join Facebook groups for templates and advice

Takeaways

For Outgoing Leaders:

• Include timelines in procedure books, noting what to do before busy seasons
• Treat incoming leaders how you wish you'd been treated
• Plan realistically around your schedule—if unavailable in June, finish tasks in May
• Attend council's end-of-year meeting for connections and appreciation

For Incoming Leaders:

• Shadow the outgoing board and ask to be included in decisions
• Request early access to familiarize yourself with systems
• Be respectful that current leaders still have work through June
• Don't hesitate to ask for help—the PTA network has answers

For Everyone:

• Create community celebrations like "Ice Cream Goodbyes" bringing families and teachers together
• Use handbook's search function to quickly find answers
• Join Facebook groups where leaders share templates freely
• Plan summer resources: reading programs, activities, Reflections theme announcements
• Remember: you're all working for the kids

The Bottom Line: End-of-year tasks are legacy-building. Close out thoughtfully so next leaders can build on your foundation rather than start from scratch.

Key Points

🎯 Foundation Philosophy

• Kindness is Universal: Build relationships through kindness across all backgrounds
• Quality Over Quantity: Focus on wholehearted participation vs. overcommitment
• It's Okay to Say No: Boundaries prevent burnout for volunteers and organizers
• Relationships Matter Most: Success comes from meaningful connections, not climbing alone

📊 The Needs Assessment Game-Changer

• Start with Community Input: Survey what your community actually wants
• Use Technology: Google Forms and SurveyMonkey make data collection simple
• Keep It Short: Limit surveys to 10 questions maximum
• Incentivize: Offer drawings and prizes to boost response rates
• Get Creative: Use carpool lines, QR codes at events, social media

🤝 Recruitment Strategies

• Personal Invitations: One-on-one asks beat mass communication
• Bring a Friend: Leverage existing volunteers' networks
• Accommodate Real Life: Provide childcare, flexible timing, various involvement levels
• Create Volunteer Menus: Offer different time commitments (20 minutes/week vs. 10 hours/month)
• Meet People Where They Are: Back-to-school nights, pickup lines, school events

🔄 Revolutionary Approaches

• Committee-First Model: Start with committees, let chairs emerge naturally
• Seasonal Flexibility: Recognize availability changes throughout the year
• Multiple Entry Points: Membership table at every event with various involvement options
• General Volunteer Lists: Create pools of people willing to help occasionally

Key Takeaways

For PTA Leaders:

1. Conduct annual needs assessments to align activities with community priorities
2. Create inclusive environments where families with children feel welcome
3. Develop volunteer appreciation systems beyond generic thank-yous
4. Build flexible structures that adapt to changing volunteer availability
5. Use technology strategically to streamline communication

For Potential Volunteers:

1. Start small with commitments matching your current situation
2. Communicate boundaries clearly without guilt
3. Consider skill-based volunteering matching your strengths
4. Remember the impact on your children and their peers
5. Be open to growth as circumstances change

For School Communities:

1. Recognize PTA volunteers as community assets deserving support
2. Understand involvement looks different for different families
3. Value consistent small contributions as much as large leadership roles
4. Create multiple pathways for family engagement
5. Celebrate ripple effects of parent involvement on school culture

Congratulations, new PTA board members! Feeling excited and maybe a little overwhelmed? This engaging episode of the Utah PTA Pulse Podcast, hosted by Cammy Whitchurch, Angelee Aedo, and Michael Williams, is your essential guide to hitting the ground running. Packed with practical advice and real-world insights, this discussion tackles everything from post-election must-dos to long-term planning. Learn how to build a strong team, collaborate effectively with your school administration, understand your community's needs, and leverage the invaluable resources available through the Utah PTA. Get ready to empower and engage your school community and make every child's potential a reality!

Key Points:

• Post-Election Action: Don't wait until the official start date! Begin connecting with your new board to plan and set goals.
• Convention Power: Attending the Utah PTA Convention (in-person or virtually) is crucial for training, networking, and building camaraderie. It's a "fire hose" of information and inspiration.
• Utilize Convention Resources: Even if you can't attend in person, sign up for virtual access to recordings, PowerPoints, the app, and vendor information – a goldmine of resources available through early August.
• Board Bonding: Convention is an excellent opportunity for your new board to bond and build the trust necessary for effective teamwork.
• Principal Partnership: Establish a strong, collaborative relationship with your principal and school secretary. Understand their goals and how the PTA can align with them. Regular communication is key.
• Understanding the PTA Mission: Ensure your school administration understands the PTA's mission to support every child.
• Needs Assessment Wisdom: Conduct a needs assessment (potentially in collaboration with the outgoing board) to understand the community's priorities and the effectiveness of past initiatives. Be respectful of the outgoing board's work.
• Balance Tradition and Change: Be cautious about making sweeping changes immediately. Understand the history and value of existing programs before implementing new ones. Change should be thoughtful and based on identified needs.
• Teacher Input Matters: Conduct needs assessments specifically for teachers to gain valuable insights into their needs and the impact of PTA activities.
• Handbook and Bylaw Essentials: Read and become familiar with the Utah PTA President's Handbook and your local PTA bylaws. These are your go-to resources for guidance and procedures.
• Collaborative Learning: Plan to incorporate training on bylaws and handbooks into your executive committee meetings.
• Calendar Coordination: Align your PTA calendar with the school calendar and consider the calendars of feeder schools to avoid conflicts. Share the PTA calendar early with families.
• Budgeting Basics: Start working on your budget early, reviewing past budgets and procedures. Ensure funds are allocated for convention attendance.
• Advocacy Awareness: Understand the PTA's role in advocacy and plan for participation in relevant events and initiatives.
• Family Engagement Focus: Prioritize events that bring families together at the school to build community and encourage volunteerism.
• Plan Strategically: Effective planning is essential for a successful year.
• Avoid Overwhelm: Take things one step at a time. It's okay to feel overwhelmed, but focus on tackling tasks sequentially.

Join Cammy Whitchurch, Angelee Aedo, and Michael Williams on the Utah PTA Pulse Podcast as they delve into the vital topic of finding joy in our busy lives, particularly within the context of PTA work. Discover how cultivating happiness directly impacts your ability to empower children and strengthen your community. This episode explores practical ways to rediscover joy, from simple daily pleasures to meaningful connections. Learn how to navigate the challenges of volunteer work and personal life while staying true to the mission of making every child's potential a reality. Whether you're a parent, teacher, administrator, or community member, this conversation offers valuable insights and inspiration for creating a more joyful and impactful environment for our children."

Key Points:

• The Importance of Joy:
  • Finding joy is essential for personal well-being and effective engagement in PTA and life.
  • A lack of joy can lead to feelings of overwhelm and decreased confidence.
• Personal Joy Recipes:
  • Joy is subjective; what brings happiness varies from person to person.
  • Identifying and implementing personal sources of joy is crucial.
• Simple Pleasures:
  • Small, everyday activities like listening to music, painting nails, or enjoying a quiet moment can significantly boost happiness.
  • These small moments have a large reward.
• The Power of Connection:
  • Meaningful interactions, such as hugs, smiles, and active listening, foster joy in ourselves and others.
  • The importance of human touch.
• PTA and Joy:
  • Focusing on the mission of PTA and celebrating small victories can combat feelings of discouragement.
  • Finding joy in specific PTA roles and activities can enhance engagement.
  • Principals and PTA's working together is important.
  • Communication is key.
• Navigating Challenges:
  • Addressing difficult situations with sensitivity and empathy is essential.
  • Knowing when to say no, or to scale back is healthy.
  • Simple meaningful events can be more impactful than over the top events.

Takeaways:

• Prioritize Joy: Make conscious efforts to incorporate joy into your daily routine and PTA work.
• Embrace Individuality: Recognize that joy is personal and encourage others to find what brings them happiness.
• Value Small Moments: Appreciate the power of simple pleasures and meaningful interactions.
• Foster Positive Connections: Build supportive relationships within the PTA and community.
• Celebrate Progress: Acknowledge and celebrate small victories to maintain motivation and joy.
• Communicate Effectively: Open communication is key to overcoming challenges and finding joy in collaborative efforts.
• Set Boundaries: It is healthy to know when to say no, or to scale back.
• Keep it Simple: Sometimes the most meaningful events, are the simplest.