Description
Book SynopsisIn today's political and global world, it's not enough to remain a solid educational leader. Leaders must become advocates for education_on Capitol Hill, in state legislatures, and within communities. Advocacy for School Leaders: Becoming a Strong Voice for Education, written by an educator for educators, examines key issues facing education, demonstrates methods for addressing the issues, and discusses strategies to advocate for an education agenda at local and federal levels. Starting with local impact and moving to federal initiatives, Sandra Whitaker provides significant insights into school-business partnerships and the legislative process, allowing educators to approach advocacy efforts with greater understanding of the institutions with which they must work. The advocacy action points and questions for reflection included in each chapter allow readers to adapt the information and strategies to their local contexts. Based on her experiences working with the media, business leaders, and elected officials, this book presents practical approaches for working with educators and those outside the field to understand issues facing today's schools and for identifying and promoting sensible solutions that elevate teaching and learning.
Trade ReviewWith today's noble but challenging emphasis on success for each public school child, the author's contention that educators must advocate to shape and reshape policy and legislation matters more than ever before. The combination of school-based stories and practical suggestions for ways to influence decision makers offers both a rationale for action and strategies for effective communication with state and federal lawmakers. -- Ann Etchison, executive director, Virginia Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development
This volume demonstrates the author's passion for the occupation and the clear need for knowledge and information. * CHOICE *
Sandra Whitaker...offers beginning and experienced education professionals a guidebook on educational advocacy....Whitaker writes in a way that makes educational change seem truly attainable. The book is a valuable resource for anyone who wants to become more active in her or his community, regardless of how large or encompassing that community may be. * American School Board Journal, October 2008 *
Whether you are just tiptoeing into the stream or are an expert in these waters, this straightforward book should top your reading list. For the beginner, it is an easily followed guidebook. For the experienced, it is a text to discuss and share with others. For everyone, it brings forward key ideas to simplify effective education advocacy. -- Ruth Larson, National Board Certified Teachers Board of Directors, National Board for Professional Teaching Standards
Table of ContentsChapter 1 The Conversation Begins Chapter 2 Know the Issues Chapter 3 Building Networks Chapter 4 Home Sweet Home Chapter 5 It's Not "Just Business"—It's Personal Chapter 6 Money, Money, Money Chapter 7 Branching Out: State and Federal Conversations Chapter 8 Moving Forward Chapter 9 Afterword: Updates at Press Time Chapter 10 Appendix A: Bibliography of Business Titles Chapter 11 Appendix B: Federal Budget Charts Chapter 12 Appendix C: Sample Letter to Congress Chapter 13 Appendix D: Appropriate Salutations for Government Officials Chapter 14 Appendix E: Government Websites Chapter 15 Appendix F: Education Associations and Websites
