ALEXANDRIA, Va., (Jan. 25, 2020)—The following statement can be attributed to National PTA President Leslie Boggs:

“Last week, the United States reached a devastating 400,000+ deaths from COVID-19, according to the Johns Hopkins University dashboard. This is more than the number of U.S. fatalities from World War II. So many families have and are continuing to experience tremendous and unimaginable loss and trauma due to the virus. Many of our PTA members are among them. We often refer to PTA as one big national family. And family are people you can count on during good times and bad. Our association, our PTA family, stands with you, and we are here to support you in your efforts to cope and recover.

“Our hearts are with every person who has been impacted by this pandemic. Mental health and social and emotional well-being are among the most pressing issues to address as a result of COVID-19. National PTA and PTAs nationwide have been and remain committed to making sure families have the supports and resources they need in these critical areas during this challenging time.

“National PTA launched a webpage at PTA.org/MentalHealth with resources to empower PTAs to help families learn about mental health and some of the most pressing issues and approaches as well as tools to help families cope. The webpage also features recordings of two webinars our association hosted in fall 2020 on understanding and advocating for mental health.

“National PTA also offers resources and tips to help families have conversations with their children to help them deal with emotions of fear, confusion, sadness and anger. The tips can be accessed at PTA.org.

“Additionally, National PTA continues to advocate for improved mental health programs and services for children and families, including the prioritization of mental health education, early intervention, prevention and access to school and community-based mental health personnel and services. 

“Across the country, PTAs are also focused on the mental health and social and emotional well-being of students and families in their school communities. PTAs have purchased curriculum to help train guidance counselors on how to navigate the mental health needs of students in direct relation to the trauma experiences. They have also provided students and families with wellness kits that have included de-stressing materials and self-care supplies.

“Now more than ever, National PTA and PTAs nationwide are working hard every day to provide critical resources, tools and information to support families and school communities and make sure they are safe, healthy and have what they need. Our mission has become that much more important during the COVID-19 pandemic.”

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.