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As part of our new communication approach, the quarterly Membership Deep Dive is designed to offer a more meaningful and comprehensive look at Statewide Membership, along with expanded tools, strategies, and recognition. This newsletter serves not only as a report on membership trends and progress across the state, but also as a space to share timely, thoughtful guidance to support your work in the months ahead. The Deep Dive gives us the opportunity to step back, reflect on progress, and provide deeper insights that help strengthen your efforts. The monthly Membership Snapshot, on the other hand, provides a brief, at-a-glance update to keep you informed, connected, and moving forward between each Deep Dive. Please be sure to share this newsletter with your Membership Chair.
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Statewide Membership Snapshot
2025-2026 NYS PTA Statewide Membership Goal 225,000.
Help NYS PTA achieve the National Membership “Footprint Award”. In order for NYS PTA to qualify for this award we need 214,000 total members registered and state/national dues paid. So get your dues paid by the National Deadline of April 30. If we reach this award, units between now and then will receive a special Footprint Badge from NYS PTA.
👉 Click here for 20+ printable graphics to help promote membership! |
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Region-wide Membership
Congratulations to Genesee Valley and Niagara regions for surpassing their 2024-25 membership count! Way to go! |
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Membership Advocacy - Shaping the Narrative
When we think about school board elections each year, remember that as a non-profit organization we must remain nonpartisan and do not endorse specific candidates or engage in partisan politics. However, our power as PTA members doesn't come from endorsements — it comes from our ability to shape the conversation.We are uniquely positioned to be the trusted, objective voice in our communities. This spring, your unit can educate voters and direct focus on the issues that matter most to our children. Here's how:
Host a candidates' forum. One of the most important events a PTA unit can host is a district-wide candidates' forum to assist the community in making an informed judgment. This isn't about giving candidates a platform; it's about setting the agenda. By gathering responses to specific questions, you ask candidates to go on the record about their educational philosophy, their stance on PTA points of advocacy, and their priorities during fiscal constraints.
Define the ideal candidate. You don't need to tell people who to vote for if you help them understand what to look for. Publish and distribute a clear list of qualifications for school board members. Remind your community that a successful board member should be a fierce supporter of public education, make decisions based on the welfare of children, and represent the interests of the community at large.
For guidance on how to get involved and participate in school board elections and school budget vote please refer to the NYS PTA School Board Elections and School Budget Vote Guidance section of the Resource Guide.
Want an easy-to-share infographic that lists out the do’s and don’ts during a School Board Candidate Election & Budget Vote season? Stay tuned for April’s edition of the NYS PTA Membership Snapshot!
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Membership Engagement - The Power of You
Many people think about PTA membership with a one-size-fits-all approach: it’s about attending meetings regularly or volunteering for midday events at a school. Actually, participation doesn’t have to look the same for everyone, and it shouldn’t. Each individual brings a unique perspective to a school community, and when everyone feels empowered to contribute in their own way, the results can be amazing. This month (and all months, truthfully) your unit can celebrate The Power of You - the concept that engagement varies from person to person, and each version is not only welcomed but valuable. Here’s how:
Create and publicize opportunities for micro-volunteering. Cutting out paper flowers for a garden mural, donating materials for an event, or wrapping cutlery for a school dance are all small tasks that can make a huge difference.
Make connections. Communities are built on relationships, and it’s quite powerful to be someone who brings people together. Invite just one friend or family member to the next PTA meeting, or introduce families whose children share common interests. When people feel welcome and comfortable, they are more likely to engage.
Help members stay in the know. Being informed is one of the first and most important aspects of advocacy. Keeping your social media pages, website, or newsletter updated regularly ensures that members and potential members are knowledgeable about issues affecting children in your school community and beyond.
Success Story Spotlight: Webster Central PTSA, Genesee Valley Region
This unit achieved impressive membership growth this year by setting clear goals, making sign‑ups accessible across all 11 schools, and celebrating milestones that energized families. Their elementary and secondary PTSAs delivered a full year of engaging, community‑centered programming, from science fairs and cultural celebrations to senior traditions and student‑led projects. The Central PTSA tied it all together with district‑wide initiatives like Community Arts Day and the Harlem Wizards fundraiser, showcasing the strength of unified leadership and passionate volunteers. Click here to read more!
Webster Central PTSA is joining us for our next Membership Monday on April 13 to share a little bit about how they approach membership. Register for this meeting here. |
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Have you been able to attend our Leadership Development Webinars? If not, don’t worry. They are available on the NYS PTA website. You can find them here.
Here are a few that might be of interest relating more towards membership.
2025-26 Givebacks
2025-26 Membership Kickoff
2024-25 Membership for the Second Half of the Year
2024-25 Givebacks
2024-25 Membership Outlook!
National PTA has short online courses available to PTA officers that you can take on your own time. The list of courses can be found here. Some of the topics include:
Making Membership Soar by Adding Value
Membership is Year Round
Build a Sustainable Culture of Giving in Your PTA
Engaging School Staff, Students, and the Community in Your Membership Efforts
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Each PTA had the opportunity to earn 11 Membership Awards in the 2025-26 school year. There are 3 more opportunities to earn an award for this year.
In April the Power of Membership Award focuses on
sharing about your membership campaign for this year. It’s as easy as completing a Google Form.
May’s Good Apple Membership Growth Award celebrates each PTAs
membership growth over 2024-25. The award has 4 tiers, and starts at just 25% over last year’s membership numbers.
In June our High Five Award recognizes all of the PTAs that
earned 5 or more awards for 2025-26. 198 PTAs have almost reached 5 awards. Will your PTA be one of them?
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As we begin to look ahead, this is a great time to start reflecting on all you’ve accomplished this year and preparing to share your story. Consider putting together a year-end newsletter or update for your school community that highlights your successes, celebrates your volunteers, and showcases the impact your PTA has made. Taking the time to recognize these achievements not only honors the work you’ve done, but also helps build excitement and support for the year ahead.
It’s also a great opportunity to begin laying the groundwork for next year—whether that’s encouraging early membership, identifying new leaders, or building momentum for a strong start in the fall. Units who are ready to get a head start can contact Givebacks Support to open their online stores to start selling 2026–27 memberships beginning May 1.
As you prepare for end-of-year transitions, take time to review your membership plans, processes, and key learnings from this year. Consider what worked well, what challenges you encountered, and what adjustments could strengthen your efforts moving forward. Organizing important information—such as timelines, communication strategies, contacts, and resources—will help ensure a smooth and confident handoff. Thoughtful preparation now not only supports incoming leaders, but also sets the stage for continued growth and success in the year ahead.
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