|
Key Decision Makers
School board members set policy for the district and are often high profile, influential individuals and decision makers in other arenas. Making presentations to the entire school board is crucial. Forging personal connections with individual school board members and transforming them into advocates can also help to make arts learning a district and community-wide priority.
Take the time to learn about each school board member and their role in the community. Then align arts learning with their sphere of influence and personal agenda to engage support. For example, school board members are also:
Parents
Parents are their children's strongest advocates. They decide where their children attend school and demand a say in what their children are taught. School board members who are parents are thrilled when watching their child perform, are excited when their child shares something new he/she has learned in an engaging way, and understand the need for creative teachers. When making the case to parents, remember to include examples of positive arts learning that will resonate with them in both roles. Additionally, as liaisons to the community, feedback from other parents will influence the positions they take when making school board decisions. Be sure to encourage other advocates to share their thoughts with these board members at arts events, on the sidelines of the soccer field, and at Parent/Teacher association meetings. Don't forget -- once you have their support, they can also be tapped to engage other parents to become arts learning advocates.
return to top
Business Leaders
Local business leaders understand that quality education impacts the future workforce. When reaching out to school board members who are also business leaders, be sure to provide proof points, data and success stories that illustrate how arts learning supports the local economy and fosters thriving communities. Offer opportunities to present at local business association meetings. Be sure to invite board members to participate in school-based arts learning activities that exemplify support for career preparation.
return to top
Educators
Educators know arts learning is a powerful teaching tool that encourages student retention, increases academic rigor and results in a strong school community. These board members can help to influence decisions supporting arts learning because they understand their value. When case-making to educators, be sure to provide local data, important national stats and specific examples of how arts learning can facilitate professional excellence for teachers as well as encourage family participation in every student's education.
return to top
How do I orchestrate an action plan?
|
