Define who the people are who make decisions in communities, school districts, and on the state and national level. Identifying these individuals enables you to choose the most effective method of advocacy. At this point, the participants may be overwhelmed at the amount of work involved. Take time to talk about an organizational structure that will encourage and support such activities by individual members. Describe your organization's activities or ways in which you would like to begin building a political action committee and network.
Individuals can be politically active in a number of ways.
This portion of the session should be dedicated to discussing actual advocacy activities. To avoid overload, point out that individuals need not be responsible for the entire list, but pick the one for which they are best suited and leave the others to the rest of the committee. Many teachers feel that they have no experience with public advocacy and would like some practical advice on writing letters, making phone call, setting up appointments, and so on. Role-playing and group work can be effective ways to address their fears. Finally, assure them that they have the necessary tools to begin public advocacy immediately.