Mercer Island Preschool Association (MIPA)     

MIPA is proud to be the state’s first, only, and model PTA of preschool parents in Washington State. As a PTA, we join 145,000 PTA parents as a very strong advocate for children and families. Its motto speaks volumes: Every child. One voice.

MIPA Advocacy Efforts Support Island Children and Families

For over 70 years, MIPA has represented the needs of young families on Mercer Island through its advocacy efforts. On behalf of the Preschools, children and parents on the Island, MIPA is the voice to the Washington State PTA, and the associated Mercer Island Legislative Team, a cross Island team of PTA representatives responsible for influencing the greater education priorities statewide. An equally important role of advocacy is through our community efforts! MIPA advocates identify needs in the community, work with community partners, and fundraise to make the solution happen. That’s empowering!

What has MIPA advocated and accomplished?

• Nursery School - MIPA launched the Island’s first nursery school in 1942– a full 2 years before the first kindergarten began on the Island.
• Kindergarten - MIPA helped fund the Island’s first kindergartens and their supplies, and even advocated, selected, and paid for teacher training.
• Elementary School - MIPA pushed for, and achieved, world language classes - first for preschoolers and then for students at the elementary schools.
• Library - MIPA helped select the property, raise the funds and build the library.
• Enrichment Activities -MIPA contracted teachers to offer drama, art, babysitting, safety classes to MI families. Most of these classes have resulted in standard offerings from the Parks & Recreation Dept.
• State PTA and Education - Legislative Representatives work with other PTAs on this Island as well as from across the state on issues varying from junk food in schools, allergies, kindergarten class size, and special needs.
• Indoor Play Space - MIPA worked with the Boys & Girls Club, and the Community Center, to establish ongoing sessions for drop-in play during the rainy months.

As parents, we naturally seek to do the best for our own children. By being a part of MIPA, we can make a difference for children in our community!

Consider joining the MIPA Legislation and Advocacy Team!

• Debbie Bertlin debbie@bertlin.net

Parks and Programs- Working in cooperation with the City of Mercer Island, Friends of Luther Burbank Park, and other community groups to insure safe and fun parks, and fulfilling programs for preschoolers in the community. New programs include Nature Education Programs, Indoor Playground, Community Center DayCare, and more!

Legislative Assembly– An annual meeting of PTA representatives from across the state where delegates vote to decide the top five issues the PTA will push in the coming legislative session. Thanks to all MIPA members who voted on the priorities.

Washington State PTA’s Legislative Priorities for the 2009

As determined at the 2008 Legislative Assembly, October 3-4

1. Basic Education Funding
2. Strengthening Math and Science Curriculum and Education
3. Washington State Assessment System Improvements
4. Support State Board of Education Core 24 Framework
5. Support Rational Approaches to Teacher Compensation

Legislative Priority Platform Information Brochure is available for you to download, print and distribute!  http://www.wastatepta.org/leg/leg_session_09/09_leg _priority_trifold.pdf

To advocate for children at a local and state level, sign up for PTA Action Alerts at http://www.wastatepta.org/  (click on “Legislation”).

Speak up for our youngest citizens by being aware and involved with MIPA's Legislative team!  See how you can make a difference in developments downtown MI, at the community center, and around the island.  Get involved with MIPA's Advocacy team!