Understanding the Levels of PTA
A UNIT PTA:
• works at the school site, at home, in the community for all children and youth;
• operates as a self-governing, planning body; and
• carries out the Purposes of the organization.
A COUNCIL OF PTAs:
• gives counseling to units;
• coordinates units, programs and projects in a specific area (geographically or by school districts); and
• provides workshops, leadership training.
A DISTRICT PTA:
• serves as a geographical division of the California State PTA and promotes state and National PTA work;
• organizes and strengthens councils and units and channels information from the California State PTA;
• provides conferences, workshops, programs, leadership training; and
• prepares publications.
CALIFORNIA STATE PTA:
• establishes policies at the state level not in conflict with the National PTA;
• represents PTA in youth and family education oriented activities at the state level;
• cooperates with statewide groups and organizations working for youth and families;
• maintains legislation advocates in Sacramento;
• plans and holds an annual convention; and
• provides workshops, field services, leadership training, publications.
NATIONAL PTA:
• establishes policies;
• advocates nationally and internationally for children and youth;
• develops and funds projects national in scope;
• maintains legislative advocacy at the federal level;
• plans and holds an annual convention; and
• provides field services, publications.