How can I learn more?

The New Jersey School Board Association provides in depth information about current issues affecting public schools:

https://www.njsba.org/

The National School Boards Association provides information on challenges and issues public schools are facing across the country:

https://www.nsba.org/

This site helps you find local legislators as well as read about current bills:

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/

Sample letters: Examples of ways to show your support for current solutions to issues have been provided on this site, but they are only meant to help you get started. We encourage you to use your own words as you wish! Other examples of sample letters to legislators can be found on many websites and are easily searched. Please feel free to find the words that represent you best.

FAQ's:

What if I call a legislator's office, and don't get the actual legislator on the phone?

That's ok - don’t object to talking to key staff. They can be very informed, helpful, and generally more accessible. They serve as your direct link to their boss. Treat them as you would a legislator, but understand who they are and what they do. Legislative Staffer Titles include: Chief of Staff, Legislative Director, Scheduler, Director of Constituent Services.

What should I expect before I pick up the phone?

Expect to connect with a busy person who wants to hear what you have to say, but would appreciate you to be organized and succinct. Key tips for a successful conversation are: Focus on a specific issue (i.e., pending bill) and clearly explain your position. Propose a solution to the problem, don’t just complain and expect a fix. And finally, don’t just speak… also listen! You'll have a unique opportunity to also learn what is going on in our government.

Can you actually voice your support for a bill or a cause over social media?

Yes, you can. Traditionally, people contact their representatives over the phone, with e mail, and postal mail. However there is a growing movement of social media use for advocacy. Currently, elected officials tend to use Twitter the most. Our advice is to be professional and succinct, just as you would in a written letter or phone call.

Are there any etiquette guidelines for e mailing a legislator?

The same guidelines apply to e-mail as to written letters. Before sending an e-mail, you might want to call the legislator’s office and ask if a letter sent by e-mail is effective. If you do send an e-mail, send it to the representative. Do not copy other representatives or send a mass e-mail. Make it a brief message with no special layouts or graphics. Do not include attachments. Include your full name and address so it is clear that you are a constituent, and ask for a response. You might also want to send a hard copy of your e-mail to the legislator.