Curriculum - California State PTA (2024)

Matters related to curriculum touch students most closely. They affect what is taught in classrooms and how it’s taught. Curriculum matters!

Curriculum - California State PTA (1)Many basic decisions about curriculum are matters of law. For example, California requires every school to offer students access to “a broad course of study.” Among other things, that means elementary students, not just their older siblings, should get instruction in science and art. All middle and high school students need some career education. And every student, throughout their time in school, should be exposed to history and civics, along with the basics of English language arts and mathematics.

WHO DECIDES WHAT IS TAUGHT IN SCHOOLS?

Educational standards describe what students should know and be able to do in each subject in each grade. In California, the State Board of Education decides on the standards for all students, from kindergarten through high school.

Standards have the power to change what happens in classrooms because they influence curriculum, including textbooks, learning materials, and tests. The State of California expects school districts to make sure that the materials they use are aligned with the standards, and to that end it recommends textbooks that districts ought to use for grades K-8. However, the state does not adopt instructional materials at the high school level, but has the same expectation regarding alignment with standards.

Decisions on curriculum adoption take place at the local school district level, and many districts differ in how they carry out curriculum requirements. Parents can be stronger advocates for quality education when they understand the issues that underlie those decisions and know what is happening in other communities.

Curriculum - California State PTA (2024)

FAQs

What is the purpose of the PTA in California? ›

PTA is the nation's largest volunteer-led child-advocacy association working to drive improvements in the education, health and well-being of all children and families. We believe every adult has a responsibility to ensure that all children develop to their full potential.

What is the meaning of PTA meeting in school? ›

PTA stands for Parent Teacher Association, a school-based organization with a mission to make the school a better place for children to learn. Parents of students work together with teachers to volunteer in classes, raise money for school supplies, and generally support the school's efforts.

How much money can a PTA carryover in California? ›

PTAs may carry-over funds from year to year in order to facilitate operations and ensure the continuity of the organization. Current California State PTA guidelines recommend that unrestricted reserves should not exceed 50% of the association's budget for an average year.

Are PTAs exempt from sales tax in California? ›

When PTAs sell items but use profits exclusively to support the purpose of the association, they are considered consumers and not retailers of certain items that they sell (California Department of Tax and Fee Administration). Tax exempt does not mean PTAs do not have to pay sales tax.

What is the goal of the PTA? ›

Every Child. One Voice. PTA's mission is to make every child's potential a reality by engaging and empowering families and communities to advocate for all children.

What is the purpose of the Physical Therapy Board of California? ›

PTBC's mission is to advance and protect the interests of the people of California by the effective administration of the Physical Therapy Practice Act.

What is the purpose of the Parent Teacher Association? ›

PTAs help build a sense of community among parents, teachers, and students. They organize social events, family-oriented activities, and collaborative projects that bring people together. This sense of community fosters a supportive network, promotes school spirit, and strengthens the overall school culture.

What is the importance of PTAs? ›

The main role of the local PTA is to build strong working relationships among parents, teachers and schools, in support of students.

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