Who is CPPS?

The Power of Parents

CPPS was founded by parents from across the city who came together in opposition of the ill-conceived closure plan put forth in 2004.  We saw clearly how a diverse, organized, constructive group of parents can bring about positive change.  Our parents bring all types of professional expertise to the table.  More importantly, there is no better group to advocate on behalf of the children of the city than concerned parents.   A parent or even single school community on their own is powerless to make district-wide changes – they are too often met with distrust, and schools and communities are often pitted against each other.  But together, we are a political force and catalyst for change.  Inside and outside of schools, parent involvement is essential to student success. CPPS captures the passion and energy from parents across the district and channels it into constructive, district-wide improvement.

Bridging Communities District-wide

CPPS is developing a grassroots network of parents and community members to advocate for district improvement and reform in local schools.  To be most effective, this network needs to include parent leaders from across the spectrum of races, cultures, regions and socioeconomic groups in Seattle – parents from the PTAs, parents from schools without PTAs, parents from private schools, and parents with non-school age kids.  In some schools and communities, such leaders are plentiful and we’ve found that they are eager to connect with one another.  Other schools and communities lack such built-in parent leaders. CPPS is the only organization in Seattle focused on participation from all parents, from all schools and all communities.

A Proven Model

CPPS is a chapter of Parents for Public Schools, founded in 1989, with chapters across the country empowering parents toward positive change for public schools. Our programs have already worked in other cities with similar challenges.

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