National PTA Statement on the Passing of Colin Powell

National PTA President Anna King issued the following statement on the passing of General Colin Powell:

“National PTA and our millions of family, students, educators and community leaders share in the mourning of the loss of General Colin Powell—a veteran, statesman and ardent advocate for the success and well-being every child in this country. We extend our deepest condolences to Mrs. Alma Powell and the rest of the Powell family.

As the first African American to be Secretary of State, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and National Security Advisor, General Powell lived his life with honor and dignity—showing many of us that we can achieve any position or career we set our minds to, regardless of race, ethnicity or cultural background.

National PTA is proud to have partnered with his organization, America’s Promise, on the key issues affecting our children. We will honor General Powell’s legacy by continuing to provide every child with the tools and opportunities they need to learn and grow so that they can thrive.”