ALEXANDRIA, Va., (March 13, 2019)—National PTA is pleased to recognize Senators Roy Blunt (R-MO) and Christopher Murphy (D-CT) with its 2019 Congressional Voice for Children Award. The award honors outstanding leadership and commitment to taking action on issues that affect the education, health, safety, well-being and long-term success of America’s children. Senators Blunt and Murphy will be presented with the award during the 2019 National PTA Legislative Conference.

“Senators Blunt and Murphy are dedicated to taking action for kids by supporting and advancing legislation that makes a difference for every child,” said Jim Accomando, president of National PTA. “We thank them for their commitment to recognizing the essential role of family engagement and are thrilled to honor them with our 2019 Congressional Voice for Children Award. We look forward to recognizing them at our legislative conference.”

Senator Blunt serves on the Senate Appropriations Committee and is the chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education. His leadership and support during the FY2019 appropriations process was integral in funding the U.S. Department of Education and related agencies that impact the health and well-being of our nation’s youth. His work also helped secure funding for the Statewide Family Engagement Centers (SFEC) program in FY2018 and FY2019.

“One of my top priorities as chairman of the appropriations subcommittee that funds the Department of Education is to make sure we’re providing the resources and flexibility states and school districts need to support students at every stage—from pre-K to post-secondary education. As a former teacher and a parent, I also know that federal support is only part of the equation,” said Senator Blunt. “Encouraging family engagement in schools is vital, and I appreciate the work that all of the teachers, parents and administrators who are part of the PTA do to strengthen and improve our education system. I’m honored to receive this award and look forward to continuing to support programs that will give every student the opportunity to succeed.”

Senator Murphy has led and supported important gun safety and violence prevention legislation. He has also led the effort for increased access to mental health services and pushed for effective, fair and consistently-implemented positive school discipline policies. Additionally, Senator Murphy has supported the SFEC program the past three years.

“I’ve used my seat on the HELP Committee to make sure every child in America has access to a quality education, regardless of his or her race, zip code or learning ability,” said Senator Murphy. “As a parent of two school-age boys, I know how important it is for me to be an active participant in their school communities. I’m honored to receive this award from National PTA and will continue to support the families and communities working hard to make sure every child attends an excellent school where they can grow and learn.”

“Senators Blunt and Murphy are leading the charge to ensure family engagement is prioritized and every child has access to a high-quality public education in a learning environment that is healthy, safe and secure,” added Nathan R. Monell, CAE, National PTA executive director. “They are true voices for our nation’s children, and we commend them for their efforts, leadership and commitment.”

Every year, the National PTA Legislative Conference brings together PTA leaders and advocates from across the country to explore the association’s advocacy priorities and the federal policies that impact kids as well as actively advocate to create a better future for every child.

During the 2019 conference—themed “PTA Takes Action for Kids”—attendees will hear from speakers and participate in workshops to expand their knowledge of federal law and grow their advocacy skills. Attendees will use this knowledge to amplify their voices by meeting with congressional leaders on Capitol Hill, Wednesday, March 13.

About National PTA

National PTA® comprises millions of families, students, teachers, administrators, and business and community leaders devoted to the educational success of children and the promotion of family engagement in schools. PTA is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit association that prides itself on being a powerful voice for all children, a relevant resource for families and communities, and a strong advocate for public education. Membership in PTA is open to anyone who wants to be involved and make a difference for the education, health and welfare of children and youth. For more information, visit PTA.org.