Arguably, the most important education decisions are made at the state and local levels. We all have an important role to play in growing awareness and support for Community Choice Public Schools in Montana.
We all have an important role to play in growing awareness and support for Community Choice Public Schools in Montana. Elected officials can influence how Community Choice Public Schools are funded, how they operate, and how much flexibility they retain. Lawmakers are on the front line, standing up for kids by supporting bills that promote Community Choice Public Schools and avoid imposing mountains of bureaucratic red tape that hinders innovation. The resistance to changing the education status quo is constant and consistent. Nothing is more effective than hearing from you, whether as parents, business owners, community members, or concerned citizens.
1. Speak Up!
Elected officials work every day to represent your best interests. They care about what you have to say. Whether you speak up through a letter, email, phone call, or meeting, the important thing is to speak up for Community Choice Public Schools. Your voice is powerful and has impact. Contact your state Senators and Representatives and speak up.
2. Keep It Personal
Sharing your story and your experiences is the most powerful form of advocacy. What does the possibility of helping to establish a Community Choice Public School mean to you? What type of school would you like to see in your area? When you keep it personal, your story resonates.
3. Keep It Simple
It is not your job to memorize every education statistic or to know every detail about Community Choice Public Schools. All you simply need to do is talk about why Community Choice Schools are important to you and a good thing for Montana.
4. Keep It Positive
Sometimes your elected officials may not express initial support for Community Choice Public Schools. Staying positive and helping lawmakers learn what Community Choice Public Schools mean to you and your family could likely change their minds. Often, some elected officials who didn’t initially support Community Choice Schools will change their minds after speaking with you.
5. Strength In Numbers
Your voice is powerful and has impact. But many voices raised together have an even bigger impact. After you speak up, don’t stop there -- encourage others to do so as well. Talk to your fellow parents, teachers, people in your community, and work about the importance of having Community Choice Schools. Share your advocacy experience and encourage others to get involved. Advocating together is more effective...and also a lot more fun!
6. Keep It Up!
Elected officials have a lot on their plate, and they need a reminder about what's important to you. So, once you’ve started a dialogue, keep in touch. If you sent an email in the fall, do so again in the winter. Attend a Community Choice Schools Commission meeting or a legislative meeting where Community Choice Schools are discussed. Help your elected representatives get to know you and your community. And finally...always remember to thank them for their time!
