Be a superhero for your child: Taking advocacy to the next level in the summer and fall
Are you ready to become superheroes for school choice in Missouri?
We know you’re passionate about providing the best education for your children, and we’re here to help you make a difference all year round.
While the legislative session, which runs from January through May, may seem like the best time to fight for expanding educational opportunities there is actually a lot you can do during the summer and fall to advance school choice policies in Missouri!
In this blog post, we’ll guide you through all the advocacy you can work on when the state legislature is taking a break. So grab a cup of coffee, put on your thinking cap, and let’s dive into the action!
What Can Parents Do When the Legislature is Not in Session?
Right now, while the legislature is on a break, you have a golden opportunity to lay the groundwork for effective advocacy during the regular session.
Guess what? You can actually connect with your legislators during lunch or dinner! No more long trips to Jefferson City. This is a great time to develop a relationship with your elected officials outside of the hustle and bustle of the legislative session.
Typically legislators have more time to talk with their constituents during the summer and fall when they are in their home districts, and developing a relationship with them now means it is more likely they will listen to your concerns when you ask them to pass a bill expanding educational opportunities when the session starts in January.
CEAM hosts a variety of events on both sides of the state during this time to help advocates connect with their elected officials in a more relaxed environment.
We recently had an ice cream social where some legislators showed up, and it was a blast for both the legislators and the attending parents and kids.
This is also an excellent time to start preparing for the upcoming legislative session.
CEAM will be holding several training sessions in the fall to get you up to speed on legislation, policies, and how to make your voice heard. Let’s get those tools in your advocacy toolbox ready for action!
What Can Schools Do to Advocate for School Choice When the Legislature is Not in Session?
Schools, this is your chance to shine!
During the fall, when legislators have a bit more free time, invite them to visit your school.
Show them the incredible work you’re doing and give them a firsthand experience of the magic happening in your classrooms.
Let’s dispel the myths about charter schools and private schools.
Legislators may not be aware of the innovative programs and exceptional care provided by these institutions. By inviting them in, we can change their perspective and build stronger support for school choice.
Click below to learn
how to host a:
How Can Parents Use This Time to Organize Other Advocates?
More voices amplify our message of educational opportunity and the summer and fall are a great time to get more of your friends and family involved in advocating for school choice!
Parents, you have the power to ignite change in your community.
Connect with people in your circles: friends, neighbors, church members, and mom groups. Spread the word about school choice and why it matters.
In both St. Louis and Kansas City, CEAM is organizing a series of events to build a strong network of parents, but you don’t have to wait for us to organize an event to get your circle of friends and family together to talk about how we can improve education in Missouri.
We encourage you to host happy hours, house parties, or any other gathering where you can share knowledge and inspire others. We’ll even support you by providing food and drinks.
If you are interested in hosting an event like this please reach out to Cici Tompkins at cici@ceamteam.org to work out details. Let’s come together and make a difference!
Finding Your Legislators and Scheduling Appointments:
Now, let’s tackle the logistics.
Finding your legislator is easier than ever. Just this form to look up your elected officials and it will provide you with a link to their website, their Twitter handle, and their phone number so you can call and book an appointment.
When scheduling an appointment, remember that they’re just people, your neighbors, and they represent your community.
Give their office a call, and the legislative assistant will guide you in setting up a meeting. You can even invite your legislator for a casual coffee chat.
Most representatives are more than happy to have a conversation. Don’t be intimidated – your voice matters!
Preparing for the Fall and the Return of the Legislature:
Congratulations, superheroes! If you take just one of the following steps this summer or fall then you are well on your journey as advocates for school choice in Missouri.
As we gear up for the fall and the legislature’s return in January, let’s make sure we’re well-prepared to be effective advocates.
Use this summer to reach out to elected officials, build relationships, and gather support for school choice. Educate yourself on the issues, attend community events, and spread awareness. When the legislature reconvenes, we’ll be ready to make a powerful impact.
Stay tuned for more training sessions and resources to help you become an even better advocate.
