Start a PTA
Want to Start a PTA?
Whether you are a parent, caregiver, school official or community leader, starting a PTA in your community is easy!
Each local PTA is a member-led and member-run independent association providing programs, activities and services to support its members and community. All PTAs are established to achieve PTA’s mission. All PTAs must comply with local, state and federal laws and regulations.
Local PTAs are connected to their state PTA, at times a district, council or region PTA within the state and National PTA. These connections form a nationwide network of millions of members working on behalf of all children and youth.
PTA is flexible … There are a number of different types of PTAs.
Different Types of PTAs
Elementary/Middle/High School PTAs
PTAs serve as a type of forum where parents, teachers, administrators, and other concerned adults discuss ways to promote quality education, strive to expand the arts, encourage community involvement, and work for a healthy environment and safe neighborhoods.
Parent-Teacher-Student Associations (PTSAs)
PTSAs provide youth members with the opportunity to make a difference by developing leadership skills, learning about the legislative process, increasing their self-esteem, and contributing to the school and community. In turn, adult PTSA members gain a new perspective for program development and youth leadership development and acquire a better understanding of the youth of today.
Early Childhood PTAs
Preschool groups often round up parents from several neighborhoods and various early-childhood programs. They involve child-care providers, grandparents, and others concerned with the education and development of children from birth to age five.
Special Education PTAs
PTA believes that all children have the right to a quality public education, which allows each student the opportunity to reach his or her fullest potential. Special Education PTAs are designed to help parents advocate for special-needs children.
Community-based PTAs
Not all PTAs are focused on a school or district. Some are created to address a specific need, population or area and work on issues that span health, education, and welfare.