Speaking Out for All Children Objectives for this workshop PTA Mission Learn definition on advocacy Ways to influence policy Do and Don’ts of Lobbying Checklist for Phone Lobbying Tips for Letter Writing Using the Media

PTA Mission To support and speak on behalf of children and youth in schools, in the community, and before governmental bodies and other organizations that make decisions affecting children To assist parents in developing the skills they need to raise and protect their children To encourage parent and public involvement in the public schools of this nation

What is Advocacy PTA defines advocacy as supporting and speaking up for children—in schools, in communities, and before legislative bodies and other organization that make decisions affecting children. A child advocate works with policy makers at the federal, state, and local levels to ensure sound polices that promote the health and well-being and education of all children.

Ways for PTA leaders and members to influence policy: Join PTA Takes Action Network to keep up on federal policies and respond to Congressional action alerts Join Kentucky Legislative network to keep inform and take action on state issues Educate members of Congress and their staff on PTA’s federal public policy priorities Know who your state legislators are and make contact with them

Ways for PTA leaders and members to influence policy Cont: Serve on school boards or attend board meetings Work with schools to develop parent involvement policies Attend a school district meeting about school choices, taxes or budget cuts Write a letter to the editor about the importance of parent involvement in children’s education and in schools

What is Politics Politics is the process people in authority use to make policy and decide who gets what, where, and when without resorting to physical violence.

Lobbying The Do List Make a personal contact Be specific and informed Be positive, courteous and considerate of their time Relate your request to your situation Know your facts and do your homework

Lobbying The Do List Cont. Use the bill number and title when applicable Mention the number of people you represent. Present an appropriate business-like appearance Be professional

Lobbying The Do List Cont. Be brief, concise and accurate Express thanks for their time

Lobbying The Don’t List Contact as an adversary Be demanding Make threats Apply pressure Send a form letter Call after 9:30 p.m. Be unfair or dishonest Show anger Show off Be rude or belligerent

Checklist for Phone Lobbying Be knowledgeable and brief Target main and local office Write down your speaking points before your call Keep a record of what was said

Tips for Letter Writing Be clear and concise Explaining why the issue is important to you and your community of your school If in a hurry, fax it!

Using the Media, PTA can: Generate interest in your issue or campaign; Educate the public and media; Force decision makers to take positions

Access to the Media is Access to the Public Stories can be shaped by information PTA provides Shows decision makers and the community how national and state issues have local impact

Target the Editorial Pages Decision makers & politicians look to news people to gauge local public opinion “Letters to the Editor” section is the most widely read portion of the newspaper

Legislative Information PTA Public Policy Agenda: PTA.org/public_policy_agenda.asp PTA Takes Action Network: PTA.org/advocacy PTA Takes Action Online Advocacy Toolkit: PTA.org/take_action.asp

Contact Information Kentucky PTA, 502-226-6607; Email: kentuckypta@bellsouth.net