Tacoma, WA (May 3, 2017): The Washington State Parent Teacher Association (WSPTA) held its 104th Annual Convention the weekend of April 28-30 in Seattle, Washington, with over 850
state leaders in attendance. There, participants attended classes and honored those who continue to serve and support the vision of the association: “Making every child’s potential a reality.”
The Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI), Washington State’s primary state agency overseeing K-12 public education, was presented with the Washington State PTA Friend of Children Award. Their vision of “every student ready for career, college, and life” – works in tandem with WSPTA’s vision “making every child’s potential a reality,” and both of our organization’s missions are in concert. Receiving the award was Chris Reykdal, the newly installed Superintendent of Public Instruction. In addition, Reykdal spent time speaking to the WSPTA audience about his goal for the future of education in Washington.
Each year WSPTA may honor individuals for work that goes above and beyond in service to children. The Friend of Children Award, since 1992, has recognized and honored individuals or organizations whose work on behalf of children has been exemplary. This award may only be granted by the WSPTA board of directors. Recipients receive a certificate and pin.
Executive Director for the Washington State PTA, Kathryn Hobbs, states, “OSPI’s reach and influence is felt each day by students, parents, and teachers/staff. Their mission, AND their support and outreach to the Washington State Parent Teacher Association by asking for feedback so our voice is heard on tough issues across multiple coalitions, committees, and one-on-one outreach, is noteworthy. This outreach and interaction has produced a role model for other states across the nation for what it truly means to have a meaningful and professional collaboration, working for what is truly important and in the best interest for Washington State’s students. This work has been exemplary!”
Past recipients of the WSPTA Friend of Children Award include Stephanie and Matthew McCleary + family (2012), Representatives Marcie Maxwell and Bruce Dammeier (2011), Senator Patty Murray (2005), and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (2003).
About Washington State PTA: The Washington State PTA was founded in 1905 by Abby Williams Hill of Tacoma, a parent and activist who saw the need for a grassroots organization to support Washington’s children. Thanks to her leadership and vision—and 132,000+ current members who have carried her vision forward—Washington State PTA has been a leading voice for children in Washington for over 110 years. To learn more about the Washington State PTA, please visit wastatepta.org.
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