The Ripple Effect

Sharon Sedlar | March 19, 2026

When we started our localized regional parent groups, it was because we wanted parents to be part of the solution (whatever that is!) from various parts of the state – different models, families, circumstances, and needs. We wanted a group to be truly representative of local efforts and environments, so that their lives and those of their families could be improved. As I have said many times before – so that we could save one family, or one child, the heartache we and many other parents have experienced.

Originally, they were called Regional Parent Volunteers, and recently we changed their titles to Regional Parent Leaders – RPLs. And it is so fitting! They cause a ripple effect. One parent, one family, using their experience to help others and help to improve education from Scranton to Pittsburgh; Erie to Philadelphia and everywhere in between.

At one of our Scholarship Information Sessions the other day, I spoke with a parent who told me how much she loves our newsletter. She attended our very first National School Choice Week event in Pittsburgh at the David L Lawrence Convention Center four years ago and thanked us for our work. It was so nice to hear! Comments like this give us such a boost! (And she had great insight and information about her locale!)

I remember another time when I attended a home educator event in my hometown. In talking with a parent, she realized that I was part of PaFEC. I’ll never forget when she said that our inspirational “parents – you can do this” messages always seemed to come at the perfect time – when she was feeling low or needed an extra bit of encouragement.

Our organization touches lives, and we are honored that you continue to “tune in” every week. Being informed is critical. Supporting fellow families and loved ones is important. Improving communities, education, and our children’s lives is something in which we all have interest. The smallest effort has an impact – one that can reverberate across the commonwealth, whether we see the proof or hear the story – or not. The ripple effect happens.

If you are interested in being a part of this effort and becoming part of our ripple effect, please text “ripple” to (412)606-0766 or send email to info@paedchoice.org. The only thing we ask is respect for everyone’s story and experience. We would love to have you!