In January 2026, Betty Sánchez, PLTI Implementation Specialist, traveled to California to conduct site visits at three locations as part of the National Parent Leadership Institute’s (NPLI) ongoing technical assistance support.
These visits are a key part of how NPLI strengthens new Parent Leadership Training Institute (PLTI) sites. Through observation, coaching, and relationship-building, the national team supports facilitators trained at National Training and helps ensure that each local cohort remains aligned with the PLTI model while adapting to community needs.
The visit began in Sacramento during a PLTI retreat that brought together both English and Spanish cohorts. PLTI begins with a retreat designed to build trust, introduce leadership concepts, and create a caring community for children. From the start, there was strong engagement. Many participants were meeting for the first time, yet activities quickly fostered meaningful connection and reflection.
One powerful moment stood out. Each time a participant shared, they stood proudly and said, “I am a Parent Leader,” and the room responded with cheers. The call-and-response reflected the spirit of PLTI and affirmed voice, identity, and collective strength.
Phase II in Action
At MOE-Merced/Los Banos and Valley Onward Gustine, parents were participating in Phase II sessions of the PLTI curriculum. During this phase, participants move from leadership development into planning community projects that address real issues affecting children and families.
Parents worked in small groups, discussed key topics, and connected their learning directly to upcoming community initiatives. Conversations were grounded in lived experience and focused on action.
Many participants shared how meaningful it feels to be part of a nationwide network of parent leaders. Several asked that their greetings be shared with the national team, a reminder that local cohorts see themselves as part of something larger.
Multi-Generational Leadership Through CLTI
The site visits also included observation of the Children’s Leadership Training Institute (CLTI), the parallel program for children ages 3–12 that runs alongside PLTI.
CLTI aligns with the same leadership themes parents are learning, adapted for age-appropriate engagement. Children practiced teamwork, communication, and public speaking through structured activities designed for their developmental stage. They listened to one another, collaborated on ideas, and presented their projects to peers.
Watching CLTI in action highlighted the confidence children develop when they are encouraged to use their voices and support one another. As children stood to present their work, it became clear that leadership is not limited to adults. It grows early and flourishes when families learn together.
This multi-generational approach is central to the PLTI model. Parents strengthen their leadership skills while children build confidence and communication abilities in parallel.
A Growing Network
These site visits reaffirmed the heart of the PLTI and CLTI model: leadership that centers families and develops capacity across generations.
As cohorts move toward graduation this spring, the energy and dedication seen across California reflect more than strong participation. They represent a growing nationwide movement of parent leaders who are stepping forward, raising their voices, and working to transform their communities for generations to come.
Learn more about PLTI at https://parentswholead.org/plti/
