Embedded Files
To be an effective advocate, you have to know not just what you are advocating for but who to advocate to - who has the power to change the things you care about. Use these resources to build your knowledge of who does what in a school system so that you can effectively advocate for students in your community.
WHO TO GO TO
Your School Board or District Administration?
Board or Administration.2024.pdfWant a quick overview of who does what in your school district? Check out this slide deck.
For a deeper dive into who to go to for what in your school district, watch this 30-minute video.
Policy vs. Practice Overview.2024.pdfIf you’re not sure about the difference between policy and practice, click on this short deck.
Then, check out this 30-minute video of school board members and district administrators discussing their roles and responsibilities.
WHY SCHOOL BOARDS MATTER
School boards have the potential to significantly impact your school district, especially when it comes to equity and student achievement. But, not all school boards are effectively using that power.
Check out these resources to learn more about the potential of school boards, and how you can hold them accountable.
Check out this 30-minute video and accompanying handout where you’ll learn how powerful the influence and impact of school boards are, and how you can advocate for inclusive, student outcomes focused school boards.
Read this revolutionary report by School Board Partners on the importance of equity-focused school board members.
If you only have 5 minutes, read this FAQ about what a school board does.
Want to know if your school board is operating effectively? Read this report by the National School Boards Association on the Eight Characteristics of Effective School Boards, and compare these characteristics to what you observe in your district’s school board meetings.
LOCAL? STATE? FEDERAL?
Who Does What?!
Here’s a great resource for contacting elected officials at all levels of government, including how to find out who your elected officials are.
Watch this video where US Congressman Greg Landsman spent 30 minutes in a Q&A with us answering questions about how policy made at the national level impacts us locally.
If you’re in Ohio, take 20 minutes to watch this video explaining the roles of the state school board and statehouse when it comes to policymaking.
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