Utah PTA Pulse Podcast

Get ready to rock! 🎙️ In this episode of the Utah PTA Pulse Podcast, host Corey Fairholm and Director of Communications Mike Williams are diving deep into one of the most exciting events of the school year: the Utah PTA Battle of the Bands. 🏆 We are joined by Ashley Rayback, the state chair for the program, and Wes Brehm, a local film and sound professional who helps capture the magic of these student performances. 🎥🎧From local school gymnasiums to multi-region contests, bands and soloists from across the state have been working tirelessly for their chance to play on a professional stage. 🌟 This year, the stakes are higher than ever as the competition moves to an iconic Utah venue!In this episode, you’ll discover:The Road to the State Battle: How the competition narrows down hundreds of acts into the final 18—featuring nine bands and nine solo/duet performers from the North, Central, and South regions. 🗺️🎶 A Professional Debut: The exciting announcement that this year’s state battle will be hosted at The Depot, giving student musicians the chance to perform with professional sound engineers on a world-class concert stage. 🏟️✨ Fast-Paced Talent: What to expect on the big day, from the two-song sets by full bands to the intimate original performances of soloists and duets. 🎤⚡ Behind the Lens: Wes Brehm shares his perspective on filming these rising stars and the energy that comes with capturing live student music. 📹🔥 Superhero Inspiration: A fun look into the hosts' and guests' "superhero" personas and how "graphic designer powers" might be the most needed skill in the PTA world. 🦸‍♀️💻

Welcome back to the Utah PTA Pulse Podcast! 🎙️ In this episode, host Corey Fairholm and Director of Communications Mike Williams are thrilled to welcome a true Utah PTA legend, Patsy Chandler. Patsy joins us to share the incredible origin story of a program that has spent the last 24 years transforming the lives of students through music: the Utah PTA Battle of the Bands. 🏆🤘From a "committee" of parents with no musical talent to a statewide tradition celebrating its upcoming 25th anniversary, this episode is a deep dive into how passion and a little bit of "bucking up" can create a lasting legacy for our youth. 🌟🙌In this episode, you’ll discover:The "One and a Half Page" Era: How the program started with simple rules—one original song for artistic expression and one cover song to test musical skill. 📝🎤Opening Night Chaos: Patsy recounts the hilarious and stressful first show at Cottonwood High School, complete with missing sound equipment and "fabulously amazing" dads stepping in to save the day. 🛠️👨‍👦The Power of Student Involvement: Why an original budget of just $500 turned into a mission to "up the commission" and provide a stage for every student to shine. 💰✨A Tradition Reborn: How a Monday morning filled with emails from supportive school administrators convinced Patsy that this "disastrous" first night was actually the start of something essential. 📧🏫Whether you're a fan of local music, a PTA volunteer, or just love a good underdog story, this conversation celebrates the "Leaders of Tomorrow" and the adults who work tirelessly to give them a voice. 🌈🎸Tune in and feel the pulse of Utah’s musical heritage! 🎧💃

Welcome to the Utah PTA Pulse Podcast, the heartbeat of education and advocacy in Utah! 🌟 In this episode, host Corey Fairholm (Immediate Past President) is joined by Mike Williams (Director of Communications), filling in for Angelee Aedo, to welcome a longtime friend of the Utah PTA, Steve James.Together, they discuss the importance of Resilient Utah Month, which begins every April 1st, and how community efforts have evolved to meet the changing needs of our students. From historical gatherings at the ballpark to modern digital resources, this episode highlights the tools available to help our children thrive.In this episode, you’ll explore:Beyond Prevention: Discover the critical shift from traditional "prevention" models to a focus on "resilience." Steve explains how moving beyond just avoiding negative behaviors to actively building internal strength helps students navigate the complexities of life with confidence. 🛠️❤️Partnering for the Future: A look at the decades-long collaboration between Steve’s initiatives and the Utah PTA. From singing at the 1996 building dedication to today’s statewide programs, this partnership remains dedicated to supporting the "Leaders of Tomorrow." 🤝🏆The Virtual Pivot: How the 2020 pandemic transformed massive community events into a digital network that brings resilience resources directly into homes and classrooms. 💻🏫April is Resilient Utah Month: Learn about the upcoming initiatives designed to reach every child and educator in the state this spring. 🗓️🌈Join us for an inspiring conversation about our shared history and our ongoing commitment to the well-being of every child in Utah.

The Utah PTA Pulse Podcast connects parents, teachers, and administrators to discuss the powerful impact of the National PTA School of Excellence program.Welcome to the Utah PTA Pulse Podcast! 🎙️ In this engaging episode, hosts Corey Fairholm and Angelee Aedo dive deep into the collaborative world of education and advocacy. This week, they are joined by two incredible leaders who are making a difference in the lives of Utah students:Melinda Tanner, Utah PTA School of Excellence Committee ChairEric Woodhouse, Executive Director of Operations for Alpine School District The conversation highlights the National PTA School of Excellence program, a recognition program that supports and celebrates partnerships between PTAs and schools to enrich the educational experience and overall school community. Eric shares his unique perspective as a district administrator who is "pro-PTA," discussing how essential the collaboration between district leadership and parent volunteers is for student success.

Welcome back to the Utah PTA Pulse Podcast! Join your hosts Corey Fairholm, Immediate Past President, and Angelee Aedo, VP of Advocacy, for an insightful and lively conversation with our special guest, Cammy Whitchurch, the Utah PTA President-elect and Convention Chair.In this episode, we dive deep into:The Utah PTA Convention: Kami shares an inside look at the planning process and the excitement surrounding this year's event.The Importance of Community: We talk about the supportive culture of the PTA, where seasoned members welcome newcomers and make them feel like part of the family—especially at the convention.

In this episode of the Utah PTA Pulse Podcast, hosts Corey Fairholm and Angelee Aedo are joined by Carol Rednour, the current Utah PTA Secretary. After a lighthearted icebreaker about video game nostalgia and the struggles of mastering Mario Kart, the conversation dives into the heart of PTA leadership.Carol, now in her third year of service, shares her passion for volunteering and explains why the Secretary is a cornerstone of any board. From the legal necessity of taking accurate minutes to the old adage that "if it wasn't recorded, it didn't happen," Carol highlights how this role protects the integrity of a board’s votes and actions.The episode takes a personal turn as Carol shares her unique "Why PTA" story, offering a glimpse into the motivations that lead parents to step up and serve their school communities. Whether you are a local leader looking for tips on minute-taking or a parent curious about getting involved, this episode offers both practical advice and heartfelt inspiration. 🌟🤝Highlights include:The "Invisible" Essential: Why the Secretary is the backbone of every good President. ✍️The Power of Documentation: How minutes serve as the official record for every vote and decision. 📋Personal Journeys: Carol’s path to the state board and her commitment to the Utah PTA. ❤️Tune in to learn more about the people behind the "Pulse" of Utah’s schools! 🎧🍎

Welcome back to the Utah PTA Pulse Podcast, where we bridge the gap between policy and the people it affects! 📢 Hosted by "Corey Fairholm" and "Angelee Aedo", this episode continues our deep dive into the world of education leadership and advocacy.In this installment, our hosts are joined once again by Amber Bonner, the Utah PTA Education Commissioner, to untangle the "hierarchy of decision-making" in Utah's schools. If you’ve ever wondered who actually has the power to change things in your child's classroom, this conversation is for you. 🍎👪Amber explains the critical relationship between the state legislature—which passes the laws—and the Utah State Board of Education (USBE), which has jurisdiction over every school receiving public dollars, including district and charter schools. With 15 elected members serving the entire state, understanding how this board operates is key to effective advocacy.This episode covers:The difference between state law and board rules. ⚖️How to navigate the USBE hierarchy and identify which of the 15 board members represents you.Why the state board is unique as the "school board" for the Utah School for the Deaf and Blind.Insights into the upcoming election cycles and how leadership shifts impact our schools. 🗳️Amber also shares a powerful reminder for every listener: you don't need to be a policy expert to make a difference. Whether you are speaking to a local principal or a state official, you are the ultimate expert on your own experience and your child’s needs. 🌟We wrap up the show with our usual fun—discussing the behind-the-scenes magic provided by our director of communications, Mike Williams, and ending with our signature celebratory dance! 💃✨Tune in to empower yourself with the knowledge to be a better advocate for Utah’s students! 🎧🏔️

Welcome to the Utah PTA Pulse Podcast, your go-to source for everything happening in the world of Utah education and advocacy! 📢 Hosted by "Corey Fairholm" (Immediate Past President of Utah PTA) and "Angelee Aedo" (Vice President of Advocacy), this podcast brings you insightful, lighthearted, and essential conversations about how we can better support our children and schools. 🍎👪In this episode, our hosts sit down with special guest Amber Bonner, the Utah PTA Education Commissioner, to pull back the curtain on what it truly means to be involved in education leadership. Whether you've wondered what an Education Commissioner actually does all day or how to navigate the complex world of legislative bills, this discussion covers it all with a focus on making advocacy accessible for everyone.+1Amber shares her personal journey and professional expertise, highlighting the importance of knowing who the right people are to talk to so your voice isn't "useless" in the system. From watching countless board meetings to understanding the nuances of the Utah State Board of Education (USBE), Amber provides a roadmap for parents who want to move from the sidelines to the front lines of change.+1But it’s not all policy and procedures! Get to know the team behind the titles as they share their favorite winter traditions—from Amber’s love of cozying up with a book in the snow to Corey’s memories of skiing in California. You’ll even hear about the "Redheaded Oreo" and the podcast's signature ending: a celebratory dance! 💃❄️+1Tune in to discover:How to effectively engage with the USBE and local officials.The reality of serving as an Education Commissioner.+1Practical tips to overcome the frustrations of getting involved.Why your unique perspective as a parent makes you the ultimate expert on your child.

Join hosts Corey Fairholm and Angelee Aedo as they welcome Yvonne Johnson, National PTA President, for an inspiring conversation about the power of parent advocacy! 🎙️In this episode, discover how advocacy is woven into the DNA of PTA and why it matters more than ever. Yvonne shares her personal journey from a frustrated parent fighting for religious holiday recognition to becoming the leader of the nation's largest child advocacy organization. Her story proves that every parent's voice counts! 💪What You'll Learn: ✨ How PTA's mission centers on advocating for EVERY child 🗣️ Why membership creates a powerful collective voice 📚 Simple ways parents are already advocating without realizing it 🤝 The importance of coalition building and sharing personal stories 💡 Resources available at PTA.org/advocacy to support your advocacy journeyHear heartwarming stories about how PTA involvement shapes children into lifelong advocates, from voting and attending legislative sessions to standing up for what they believe in. Whether you're new to PTA or a seasoned leader, you'll leave feeling empowered to make a difference! 🌟Key Takeaway: You don't need to be an expert to advocate—your personal story and experience are your expertise. From parent-teacher conferences to school board meetings, if you're raising your voice for children, you're already an advocate!Utah PTA celebrates 100 years while National PTA marks 129 years of fighting for children's futures. Join this incredible legacy! 🎉

On this episode of the Utah PTA Pulse Podcast, hosts Corey Fairholm and Angelee Aedo (VP of Advocacy Angelietta is mentioned in the transcript ) are joined by Raquel Fodole Clark from the partner organization, One Kind Act A Day.Before diving into kindness initiatives, co-host Angelee Aedo asks Raquel, who is expecting a baby, what she's most looking forward to—seeing her child’s personality develop—and the hosts share valuable parenting advice, emphasizing listening to motherly instinct and not being afraid to "pivot" since every child is different.Raquel introduces One Kind Act A Day, a non-profit organization focused on spreading kindness in the community based on the vision that the world would be a better place if everyone did at least one kind act daily. The organization partners with businesses, communities, religions, and schools to enhance a culture of kindness.A key focus of the discussion is the new Teacher Recognition Award in partnership with Utah PTA. Raquel explains that the monthly award celebrates teachers for the sacrifices they make. The nominated teacher receives a $500 grant to use in their classroom. Anyone, including other teachers, parents, or students, can nominate a deserving teacher who goes "above and beyond" and practices kindness daily. The nomination form can be found on the Utah PTA website (UtahPTA.org).Raquel also discusses One Kind Act A Day's initiative for schools to become certified as an "official school of kindness" through a year-long program involving service projects, counting kindness, and art and essay projects. They also establish student-led kindness clubs for sustainability in following years. Schools interested in applying can find the application on thepowerofkind.org.The hosts praise One Kind Act A Day's work for bringing communities together and promoting deliberate acts of kindness

Hosts Corey Fairholm and Angelee Aedo chat with Amanda Morton, VP of Relationship Development at Cyprus Credit Union , about their partnership with Utah PTA. Amanda highlights Cyprus's commitment to supporting educators and students , including providing the free Stukent Financial Literacy Software to every high school in the state of Utah. This software is a digital version of the Game of Life , where students manage credit scores, mortgages, and paychecks over a semester. The program earned Cyprus the Honors in Education Award from Abby Cox.

Host Corey Fairholm and VP of Advocacy Angelee Aedo welcome Utah PTA Family Life Commissioner Aimee Warren to discuss her role, which focuses on everything happening outside of school hours , including foster care and adoption, after-school programs, and encouraging family time. Amy shares details about her ongoing initiative, Table Talk Tuesday , a weekly social media post on the Utah PTA Facebook and Instagram that provides families with conversation starters to use at the dinner table or in the car. The conversation emphasizes the importance of parental engagement in their children's education and whole life for their success and well-being. Finally, Amy, a former Legislative Action Committee (LAC) member, discusses advocacy work at the Capitol , upcoming bills like affordable child care , and how listeners can get involved with the Family Life Commission or the LAC.

One-Sentence Description:Utah PTA Safety Commissioner Tina Seastrand reveals the expansive world of school safety—from cyberbullying to funding challenges—and how parents can get involved in protecting students.Full Description:🎧 Episode Overview: Join hosts Corey Fairholm and Angelee Aedo as they sit down with Tina Seastrand, Utah PTA Safety Commissioner, for an eye-opening conversation about the multifaceted challenges of keeping students safe in 2025.What You'll Learn: 🔍The expanded role of safety beyond just physical security—including digital wellness, cyberbullying, mental health, and cyber attacksWhat's coming in the upcoming legislative session regarding school safety provisions 📋The critical funding gap between safety mandates and available resourcesHow safety connects to student learning and mental health 🧠Practical ways parents can get involved at the local level—even without a formal safety commissioner roleKey Topics Covered: ✨ ✅ School safety legislation updates (House Bill 40 and beyond) ✅ Partnerships with organizations like Utah Coalition Against Pornography, Safe UT, and NAMI ✅ The importance of PTA and School Community Council collaboration ✅ Creating safe walking routes and advocating for infrastructure improvements 🚸 ✅ How to join Utah PTA's Safety CommitteePerfect For: 👥 Parents, educators, community members, and anyone passionate about student safety and wellbeingConnect: 📧 Interested in joining the Safety Committee? Email: [email protected] when students feel safe, they can truly learn and thrive. 💚

Did you know Utah schools receive over $110 million annually from a fund that began before statehood? Hosts Corey Fairholm and Angelee Aedo talk with Sherry Mattle, Utah PTA's Trust Lands Chair, about this powerful education resource.Discover how a 1989 PTA resolution transformed a $50 million fund into today's $3.7 billion for education. Learn why Utah PTA serves as watchdog for these funds, and how YOU influence spending at your child's school through the School Community Council.Utah PTA Mission: To make every child's potential a reality by engaging and empowering families and communities to advocate for all children.Key PointsTrust Lands History: Established by the 1894 Utah Enabling Act before statehood. PTA leader Sandra Skousen's 1989 resolution led to the 1994 creation of SITLA, growing the fund from $50 million to $3.7 billion in 30 years.How It Works: Three offices manage the trust—SITLA (land management), SITFO (investments), and the Advocacy Office (oversight). Revenue comes from grazing leases, mineral rights, land sales, and investments.Your Local Voice: Every school has a School Community Council deciding how trust lands money is spent. The council must have more parents than staff, with a parent as chair. Funds prioritize student growth in math, reading, and science with measurable outcomes.PTA's Watchdog Role: Utah PTA protects trust lands as an independent voice not funded by government. PTA monitors legislation to prevent funds from being redirected from their intended purpose.TakeawaysYou Have Power: Influence trust lands spending at your child's school through the School Community Council. One parent's concern can create meaningful change.Collaborate: When PTAs and School Community Councils work together, combining volunteers and funding, powerful solutions emerge for students.Protect the Promise: Trust lands represent Utah's commitment to support public education forever. Honor that trust for current and future students.Stay Informed: Follow Utah PTA advocacy updates about trust lands legislation. Contact your legislators to protect these funds.Get Involved: Attend School Community Council meetings, join the Trust Lands Committee ([email protected]), and visit trustlands.utah.gov to see your school's funding.

🎧 New Podcast Alert! Utah PTA Leadership Academy Insights! 🚀Want to take your PTA leadership skills to the next level? You've got to hear the latest episode of the Utah PTA Pulse Podcast!Immediate Past President Corey Fairholm and VP of Advocacy Angelee Aedo welcome guest Stacey Mollinet to discuss the acclaimed Utah PTA Leadership Academy!What You'll Learn:The Leadership Academy equips ALL PTA LEADERS (local, council, and region) with essential, proven strategies in:Family EngagementAdvocacyOutreachCommunicationThis immersive, NO COST training helps you understand the why and the how behind effective leadership, setting it apart from standard convention training.🌟 Prepare for the Winter 2026 Session!The Fall 2025 session is underway, but it's time to prepare for the Winter 2026 Leadership Academy!Application Opens: November 2025Training Offered: Four sessions held once a month (tentative Tuesdays: January 20, February 17, March 17, April 21, 2026) at the Utah PTA office.Commitment: Full attendance and engagement in all sessions are required for success.We are seeking forward-thinking leaders who: demonstrate a passion for our vision, exhibit integrity, believe PTA should be inclusive, and strive to increase family engagement!Don't wait! Listen now to get all the details and prepare your application!🎧 Listen to the Podcast: https://www.utahpta.org/pulse-podcast📚 Learn More & Sign Up for Notifications: https://www.utahpta.org/leadership-academy❓ Questions? Contact Stacey Mollinet at [email protected].

In this episode of the Utah PTA Pulse Podcast, host Corey Fairholm, the immediate past president , and Angelee Aedo, the VP of Advocacy , sit down with Andrea Hinton, the Director of Membership, to discuss the vital role of membership in empowering the Utah PTA's mission. Membership is the backbone of the organization, providing the powerful voice needed to advocate for all children on Capitol Hill and beyond.Andrea shares the excitement of Utah PTA's 100th anniversary and the fun, year-long "birthday party" membership campaign. They dive into the details of new and exciting membership awards designed to encourage local PTAs, like the "Early Bird Award" (50% of last year's membership by September 25th) and the new 100th-anniversary awards: the "UTAH-PTA Centennial Unit" (100 members by October 25th) and the "Visionary Award" (100 members over last year's total or double membership if they had less than 100).Learn how easy it is for anyone to join—parents, teachers, grandparents, business owners, and community members—even if they don't have children in school. The common misconception that joining requires volunteering is debunked: your low-cost annual dues (around $8 per year ) support essential programs and give you a voice in how the PTA spends money, with no volunteer hours required.Joining a local PTA not only connects you to your school and community but also grants you membership with both Utah PTA and National PTA, unlocking access to valuable training (like "Thrive" ), the availability of grants (for programs like STEAM, reflections, and advocacy ), and discounts and perks. Get practical tips on how local PTAs are making membership drives fun by involving the kids with competitions and incentives, such as class pizza parties. With a goal of 100,000 members this year , the team emphasizes that every single member increases their power to advocate for more school funding, better programs, and healthier schools for our children.

Join hosts Corey Fairholm (Utah PTA Immediate Past President) and Andrea Hinton (Director of Membership) as they sit down with Angelee Aedo (VP of Advocacy) for an inspiring conversation about Utah PTA's upcoming Advocacy Conference. In celebration of 100 years of advocacy excellence, this special event promises to honor the past while equipping parents, educators, and community members with the essential skills to advocate effectively for children today and into the future.This episode breaks down everything you need to know: when and where to attend, what classes are offered, why resolutions matter, and how your voice can make a lasting difference in every child's education. Plus, find out about the exciting past president panel and the special 100th birthday celebration!Mission: To make every child's potential a reality by engaging and empowering families and communities to advocate for all children. Event Details:Date: Thursday, November 13, 2025Time: 9:00 AM - 2:30 PMLocation: Jordan Learning Center (9800 South Bangerter, across from Elkridge Middle School)Cost: $10 registration + $15 optional lunch (Apple Spice Junction catering)Registration Deadline: November 3rd for lunch orders; registration continues until event dayFormat: In-person only (no virtual option this year)Conference Theme: "Honoring the Past While Shaping the Future" - Celebrating 100 years of Utah PTA advocacy workSpecial Features:Past President Panel discussing historic advocacy wins and lessons learnedThree resolution votes during business meeting (cyber bullying, students with disabilities, education funding)100th birthday celebration with special cake during lunchNetworking opportunities with like-minded advocatesClasses Offered (Two Sessions):Advocacy Basics (offered in both sessions)Legislative Basics with Amber BonnerHistory of Trust Lands with Margaret ByrdResolution Writing: Process and ImportanceFamily Engagement: Building School-Parent PartnershipsWho Should Attend: Everyone! PTA members, parents, teachers, administrators, community members, advocacy reps, presidents, and anyone passionate about children's education. Non-PTA members welcome at slightly higher cost.Three Resolutions to be Voted On:Cyber Bullying (New) - Addressing technology-filled world challenges including AIStudents with Disabilities (Updated) - Adding federal funding provisionsEducation Funding (Updated) - Including unfunded mandates languageRegistration Information: Visit utahpta.org > Events tab > Advocacy Conference Questions: Email Angelee at UtahPTA.orgRemember: Wear your PTA gear proudly, but leave candidate shirts and political buttons at home—Utah PTA is proudly nonpartisan.Producer: Michael Williams, Utah PTA Director of CommunicationsConnect with us and register today to be part of Utah PTA's legacy of advocacy excellence!

Join hosts Angelee Aedo (VP of Advocacy) and Mike Williams (Director of Communications) as they welcome new co-host Corey Fairholm, Utah PTA's Immediate Past President! Corey shares her perspective serving on the National PTA Membership Committee and reveals how Utah's 70,000 members are part of a powerful nationwide movement.Discover how PTA membership creates real impact beyond your local school. From preventing the withholding of federal education funding to ensuring safe walking routes, learn how collective advocacy makes legislators listen. Corey breaks down myths about national PTA membership and explains why having a seat at the table matters for Utah families.Hear about incredible resources available through NationalPTA.org, from the Thrive training program to the "Myths and Facts" document changing conversations at back-to-school nights across Utah.Utah PTA Mission: To make every child's potential a reality by engaging and empowering families and communities to advocate for all children.Key PointsWhy Membership MattersUtah PTA's 70,000 members amplify advocacy at state and federal levelsMembership gives PTA powerful voice representing millions when addressing legislatorsNumbers create leverage for school safety, education funding, and safe walking routesNational PTA ConnectionNational PTA represents all 50 states, plus Europe and Puerto RicoUtah operates at Tier One status due to strong membership numbersApplications for national committee positions open annually (due in October)Resources AvailableNationalPTA.org offers free resources including Thrive training programMembership Minute videos, Membership Mania campaigns, "Myths and Facts" documentsNational and state PTA leader Facebook groups for collaborationReal ImpactNational PTA successfully advocated for release of withheld federal education fundsPTA established kindergarten and school lunch programs throughout historyStates share successful programs and resources nationwideTakeawaysFor Parents & Community:$8 local membership connects you to 128-year legacy of child advocacyAccess national resources with your regular PTA login (no additional fee needed)Small local involvement contributes to large-scale changeFor PTA Leaders:Explore NationalPTA.org for ready-to-use campaigns and trainingJoin National PTA Facebook groups to connect with leaders nationwideUse "Myths and Facts" document at back-to-school eventsFor Everyone:PTA's strength lies in unified mission across all levelsLeadership rotates every two years, creating opportunities for new voicesBeing "at the table" requires collective power of membership

Advocacy doesn't have to be intimidating! Join VP of Advocacy Angelee Aedo and Immediate Past President Corey Fairholm as they break down practical ways to engage with legislators during Utah's interim session. Learn why NOW is the critical time to build relationships, how to attend committee meetings (in-person or online), and simple strategies to invite legislators into your school community. From reading to students to attending bike parades, discover how small actions create big impact. Whether you're new to advocacy or a seasoned volunteer, this episode empowers you to step out of your comfort zone and advocate for every child.Utah PTA Mission: To make every child's potential a reality by engaging and empowering families and communities to advocate for all children.Key PointsInterim session (now through November) is when the real legislative work happens - bills are written, discussed, and shaped before the January sessionLegislators are regular people - they have other jobs and want to hear from constituentsStart building relationships NOW - text, email, or attend town halls to open dialogue before the busy sessionInvite legislators to your school - ask them to read to classes, attend assemblies, walk to school with kids, or observe lunchAttend interim committee meetings - available online and in-person at le.utah.govFind your legislator - visit le.utah.gov to identify your representatives and access their contact informationTakeaways✓ Always thank legislators for their service when reaching out ✓ Be specific about concerns - reference particular bill sections, not just emotions ✓ Keep inviting legislators even if they decline - persistence shows importance ✓ Every school should have an advocacy person - maybe that's you! ✓ Start local: city council, school board, and mayor are great places to practice advocacy ✓ PTA celebrates 100 years of advocacy - still fighting for clean water, school safety, and child welfare ✓ You don't need to agree on everything to build a productive relationship ✓ "Be less afraid" - step slightly outside your comfort zone this year