The legislative session is just around the corner, and the KASB advocacy staff has been busy for the last couple months laying the foundation for their advocacy work. We shared with board members from across the state what we believe are the critical issues for this session and the delegate assembly formally adopted the positions at our annual convention in November.
Now the question becomes, "What role do education leaders, board members and district leaders play in advocating for student success?"
As we traveled the state this fall, we engaged with several members of the Legislature, and they emphasized they wanted to hear from their constituents. They also stressed that they need to hear from parents and school board members authentically, not through form letters or canned testimony.
Due to the abundance of issues that they face, they often rely on other legislators serving on committees or closer to the issues to provide information. Sometimes these legislators are not supportive or don’t understand the issues public schools face. Board members play a critical role in providing insider insight and perspective on what happens in schools. They need to hear from you about the challenges and successes you are experiencing.
Here are three key steps to begin your advocacy efforts:
1. Get out and build relationships
To become a trusted, reliable source on educational matters, you must have a relationship with your legislator. Reach out before the legislative session to visit with your legislator and seek to find common ground. I personally find success when I use common ground to establish an ongoing relationship. They need to know that you recognize the scope of work they are facing and understand that there are always more challenges than resources.
2. Get them into your buildings while students are there
Who doesn't love a good photo opportunity? Find ways to get your legislator into your buildings while the students are there. Use that common ground you have established to invite them to see the successes and challenges you are facing. Workforce development is often an area of common ground for schools and legislators. Let them see the programs you have established that prepare students for their next step in life. While they are in the buildings, show them the special education program and other programs, then talk about the challenges that students face today.
3. Don't assume they know how your school district operates
Education is notorious, just like most professions, for throwing around acronyms and jargon that can be confusing. For example, speak in simple language about a student's individualized study plan versus using IEP, or instead of calling them social-emotional skills, call them work readiness skills, or essential life skills. School funding is a complex process in Kansas, not because we are trying to hide or obfuscate, but instead, we are trying to get funding to the groups of students that need it.
Take the time to explain the general rules or parameters of school finance. Examples could be; how at-risk dollars are spent, how resources are received for students learning a second language or how dollars are received for transporting students. Your district gets a large amount of money; share the limitations on that money. Share these reasons, don't assume they already know.
Additionally, remember that your role on the local school boards provides you a front-row seat to work in your district, and use that experience to share and advocate for your students outside of your school district. School board members are the largest elected body in the state of Kansas. There are 1,998 school board members who have a passion for seeing their students succeed; let's channel that passion to advocate for our students!
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