Inclusion isn’t just about having everyone in the room—it’s about making sure everyone feels like they truly belong. At Lake Washington PTSA Council, we recognize that our community is rich with many identities, experiences and needs. Families come from diverse cultures, speak many languages, and bring different abilities, perspectives and traditions. Inclusion means honoring all of that—not with separate spaces, but with shared spaces that are thoughtfully prepared.
When we plan PTA events, inclusion shows up in layers:
- In how we communicate: reaching families in the languages they understand
- In how we design: thinking ahead about accessibility, sensory needs and cultural relevance
- In how we welcome: being intentional with every greeting, every setup and every detail
It’s not about doing something extra, it’s about doing things differently with everyone in mind from the start. True inclusion doesn’t divide us into groups; it brings us together, in one space, where each person’s presence matters. When we lead with this mindset, every family feels seen, and our PTA becomes a place where belonging is real—for everyone. If you’d like to read more and dive deeper into this vision, the full piece continues below.
Embracing All: The Many Layers of Inclusion
Picture this: A family new to our school walks into a PTA event for the first time. They notice the welcome sign is in several languages, including their own. A volunteer greets them warmly, offers to answer any questions, and gently guides their child—who can get overwhelmed by noise—to a cozy, quiet corner set up for anyone needing a break. They meet other families and share food from different cultures, discovering both samosas and pizza at the snack table. In that moment, they feel they truly belong.
This isn’t just a feel-good story, it’s the vision we strive for at every PTA gathering. Inclusion is more than a buzzword; it’s our heartfelt commitment to ensure every family feels welcome, supported and valued in our school community. Inclusion is a multilayered effort, woven into everything we do, so that no matter who you are or where you come from, you know you have a place with us.
Our school community is beautifully diverse. Some families speak a language other than English at home; some are navigating special education needs; some come from cultural backgrounds not widely represented; and many have simply felt unsure if they’ll fit in. Inclusive planning means we see and value all of these layers of our community, and we prepare for a wide range of needs. No two families are exactly alike, but every one of them belongs in our shared school experience—and our goal is to reflect that in every event and initiative.
In practice, inclusion means paying attention to details big and small. For example, we strive to:
- Remove language barriers: Translating flyers, emails and event announcements into the languages our families speak
- Make events accessible: Providing wheelchair access, stroller-friendly spaces and quiet zones
- Respect cultural differences: Being mindful of holidays, dietary needs and traditions
- Offer flexibility and support: Providing child care, virtual options or varied event times
- Welcome everyone personally: Greeting newcomers warmly and helping them feel connected
Each of these actions might seem small on its own, but together they send a powerful message: You are not an afterthought here. You are an integral part of our community.
An important part of inclusion is understanding that inclusive events do not mean separate events for different groups. We design shared spaces where everyone can participate together, integrating supports into unified events to ensure no one feels isolated.
Designing shared experiences with diverse needs in mind not only prevents anyone from feeling left out, it also fosters connection. When we all share the same space, we learn from one another.
At its core, inclusion isn’t just a checklist—it’s a mindset. It’s the way we approach every decision and interaction, always asking, ‘Who might feel left out, and how can we bring them in?’
When we all embrace this inclusive mindset, our community becomes warmer and stronger. We see it in the smiles of returning families, in the confidence of students who know they belong, and in the unity that blossoms through empathy and shared experiences.
Inclusion is an ongoing journey. Each PTA meeting, family night and school event is another opportunity to grow. We will continue learning and adapting, driven by the belief that every family deserves to belong.
Ultimately, inclusion is about creating a community where every voice is heard and every need is considered. Together, we can ensure that no one is left on the sidelines. Inclusion is not just a principle—it’s our promise.
— LWPTSA Council Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Co-Chair Zahra Eslami (Diversity@LWPTSA.net)