By Danica Noble, WSPTA Federal Legislative Committee
Last December, I met with Senator Patty Murray’s policy advisor on education in Washington, D.C. as a member of Washington State PTA’s Federal Legislative Committee. We explored common ground, as WSPTA had recently adopted Resolution 18.45 “High-quality Preschool to Third Grade Early Learning,” one of Senator Murray’s priorities. National PTA also supports high-quality childcare and early learning, highlighting the widespread acknowledgment of these crucial issues.
Senator Murray is one of Washington’s two senators and the first female Senate President Pro Tempore. As such, she is third in the line of Presidential succession. She is also Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee.
Our discussion was insightful and included not just Senator Murray’s education policy advisor, Abby Laver, but also a current intern and graduate of North Seattle’s Broadview Thomson K-8. Together, we discussed funding meals for all students in public schools and supporting federal special education laws like the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
Addressing the challenge of securing long-term, equitable funding for education was part of our conversation and we all emphasized the importance of this goal for education advocates at all levels. Senator Murray, whose public policy journey began in WSPTA, understands the significance of this ongoing struggle.
Looking ahead, delegates from WSPTA are preparing to engage with members of Congress during National PTA’s Legislative Conference and Hill Day, set for March 5-7, 2024, in Washington D.C. We hope you will join us in making our voices heard on behalf of Washington’s students and schools.