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Excerpted from a speech by Mary DeYoung-Smith, Michigan PTSA President as she spoke at the RO PTSA 2010 Founders’ Day:
We have a monumental task before us in Michigan – to improve public education funding! In the State of the Union Address, President Obama stated, “The best anti-poverty program around is a world class education.” As you are very much aware, the cuts to education funding have been deep and painful. We have been frustrated with the inadequate funding our public schools receive, and the lack of response from our state leaders.
It is up to you to change this unacceptable trend in our state government. It will only change if all parents, educators and concerned citizens are involved in the fight to bring education funding to an acceptable level, so that every child in Michigan receives a quality education. If parents are not willing to speak up for our schools, and for a good education for their kids, then how can we expect change? If it doesn’t matter to you, to whom should it matter? You must be diligent in asking our state government to fix this problem. You must share your concerns within your communities, and ask for your neighbors’ help in lobbying the state legislature for make education funding a priority.
This issue must be above politics. The legislature must be encouraged to discuss education funding NOW – it cannot wait until after the fall elections. It cannot be put off because someone is running for re-election, or because it is not a good time politically to discuss money for our schools. Our children have one chance at an education, and every day matters.
Our state cannot move forward if we leave today’s children behind. I need your commitment to join the Michigan PTSA in urging our legislators to properly fund education. I need you to be persistent and not give up the fight, until our goal is accomplished.
Parents have the most at stake at this crucial time; and you have more influence on the legislature than superintendents or school business officials. You must be prepared to be a part of this endeavor. Your voice must be heard.
At our annual Michigan PTSA Convention in Troy, April 23 - 25, we will have information and discussions on education funding. We will also have information on parent involvement, student health and welfare issues, a student rally, and leadership training for you.
Plan on attending Michigan PTSA’s Advocacy Day on May 25. We will be talking to our state legislators regarding our concerns with education funding. We need all of you to attend. Your participation is vital in making an impact on Advocacy Day.
Thank you for allowing me to share my thoughts with you. Thank you for all you do to build up your communities. Thank you for joining me in fighting for adequate public school funding for all children in Michigan!
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