National PTA Announces Jan Harp Domene Diversity and Inclusion Award Recipients

Heidi May Wilson, Senior Manager, Media Relations

703-518-1242

[email protected]

ALEXANDRIA, Va., (May 14, 2024)-National PTA is pleased to announce the recipients of its 2024 Jan Harp Domene Diversity and Inclusion Award, which honors PTAs for outstanding efforts in making sure the perspectives and needs of all communities are heard and represented, as well as efforts to end discriminatory practices. This year's recipients are:

• Mill Creek Elementary PTA (Mill Creek, Wash.)

  Mill Creek Elementary PTA in Washington state has dedicated its efforts to fostering an inclusive school community. Despite socio-economic shifts and challenges stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic, Mill Creek Elementary PTA has prioritized accessibility, offered free events and programs, and provided language support for diverse families. The PTA's support for LGBTQ+ families, increased social media presence, and multilingual volunteer efforts have further enhanced inclusivity in their school community. Mill Creek Elementary PTA has set a high standard for and remains steadfast in its commitment to diversity, inclusion and outreach.

• Big Creek Elementary PTA (Middleburg Heights, Ohio)

  Overcoming a history of exclusivity, Big Creek Elementary PTA in Ohio prioritized reflecting their school's diversity within their board and events. By actively engaging underrepresented families, implementing sensory-friendly options, and collaborating with school administration, they transformed their PTA into an inclusive space. Their initiatives not only increased attendance and diversified board membership but also enriched the overall PTA experience for all families, demonstrating the profound impact of embracing diversity and inclusion.

• Hollandale PTSA (Hollandale, Miss.)
  Hollandale PTSA at Simmons High School in Mississippi has dedicated its efforts to serving a diverse community of families, including many grandparents raising grandchildren. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by these families, the PTSA has made extraordinary efforts to ensure their voices are not only heard but valued. Through a combination of flyers, social media, and word of mouth, they have effectively communicated meeting schedules to all families, regardless of their preferred means of contact. Moreover, the PTSA's leadership actively advocates for students within the school, offering support in navigating educational challenges. By prioritizing inclusivity and empowerment, the PTSA has built a strong foundation of trust between families, students and the school, contributing to the success and well-being of every member of the community.

"Mill Creek Elementary PTA, Big Creek Elementary PTA and Hollandale PTSA have demonstrated a commitment to diversity and inclusion by engaging underrepresented families, offering support to diverse groups, ensuring that all voices are heard and valued, and remaining steadfast in their efforts," said Yvonne Johnson, president of National PTA. "The PTAs are examples of how dedication, collaboration and a focus on diversity and inclusivity can create positive change within school communities, enriching the experiences of all students and families. We applaud their efforts and are pleased to recognize them with our 2024 Jan Harp Domene Diversity and Inclusion Award."

The Jan Harp Domene Diversity and Inclusion Award is named after past National PTA President (2007-2009) Jan Harp Domene, who was dedicated to ensuring that families of all backgrounds felt welcomed in PTA and their school communities. The award recipients are selected by National PTA's Diversity, Inclusion & Outreach Committee, which also works to ensure diversity and inclusion in PTA. Mill Creek Elementary PTA, Big Creek Elementary PTA and Hollandale PTSA will each receive a plaque and a $1,000 award in recognition of their efforts to further their work. The PTAs will also be recognized during National PTA's 2024 Virtual Convention, June 27-29.

PTA is committed to advancing and ensuring diversity, equity and inclusion at all levels of the association. If you have witnessed or experienced bias in your PTA, please reach out to [email protected].

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.