ALEXANDRIA, Va., (Sept. 8, 2022)—The following statement can be attributed to National PTA President Anna King and Mississippi PTA President Annita Bonner:

“The water crisis facing families, schools and communities in Jackson, Miss. is heartbreaking and unacceptable. Families should not have to worry about having safe water to drink, cook, brush their teeth and for other necessities. And just as schools have opened their doors again for in-person classes, they have had to shift once again to virtual learning due to the crisis.

“In-person learning and safe water are vital to the health and success of all children. The crisis in Jackson, as well as in other communities across the country, highlight that children and families—particularly those who live and learn in diverse, underrepresented communities—continue to face significant, disparate and difficult challenges.  

“Careful preservation and protection of water supplies is essential, and it is critical that strong, strict water quality standards are put in place to help assure a healthy environment for all children, regardless of race, education level or financial status. Local, state and federal legislation and regulations must also be implemented effectively to maintain the highest possible levels of water quality.  

“As the nation’s oldest and largest child advocacy association, National PTA, Mississippi PTA and PTAs across the country continue to remain committed to advocating for safe water for all children, families and schools. More must be done to ensure that every child has a healthy and safe environment in which to live, learn and thrive.”  

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.