National PTA Statement on State of the Union Address

ALEXANDRIA, Va., (Jan. 31, 2018)—Last evening, President Donald Trump delivered his first State of the Union address, outlining his priority areas for 2018, including immigration and national security, infrastructure, jobs and the economy and trade. President Trump also called for bipartisan unity to move the country forward in the areas of importance to all Americans.

“National PTA agrees with the administration in the significance of Congress coming together to address the issues important to our country, and particularly, to our association,” said Jim Accomando, president of National PTA. “National PTA looks forward to continued dialogue with the administration and Congress to advance policies that make a difference for the education, health, safety, well-being and long-term success of all of our nation’s children.”

National PTA also echoes President Trump’s call for funding to improve the country’s infrastructure and advocates that the administration and Congress include school facilities in this.

“National PTA believes investments must be made in public school facilities for the benefit of all students and the future of our nation,” said Nathan R. Monell, CAE, executive director of National PTA. “Schools are a critical part of our nation’s infrastructure and it is essential that investments are made to repair, renovate and modernize school facilities to ensure they are safe, healthy and well-equipped to advance student achievement, grow our economy and improve our competitiveness.”

Additionally, like the administration, National PTA urges Congress to pass legislation that provides the young immigrants who have received protection under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program the ability to reach their fullest potential.

“Policymakers have a momentous opportunity to work together to address immigration in a fair, appropriate and equitable way and provide real solutions that benefit our nation’s diverse and talented youth and their families,” added President Accomando. “Ensuring that all children have the opportunity to succeed and become productive members of society is essential and in the best interest of our nation.”

As throughout the association’s history, National PTA remains committed to working closely with the administration and Congress to promote educational equity and opportunity for all children so that every child’s potential becomes a reality and for the future of the country.

Media Contact
Heidi May Wilson, National PTA
[email protected], (703) 518-1242

About National PTA

National PTA® comprises millions of families, students, teachers, administrators, and business and community leaders devoted to the educational success of children and the promotion of family engagement in schools. PTA is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit association that prides itself on being a powerful voice for all children, a relevant resource for families and communities, and a strong advocate for public education. Membership in PTA is open to anyone who wants to be involved and make a difference for the education, health and welfare of children and youth. For more information, visit PTA.org.