Teachers are often hesitant to toot their own horns, but we need to highlight the great work we do with students to ensure our elected officials understand why properly supported staff and well resourced schools are vital to students’ futures. As part of CEA’s public awareness campaign, Teachers Go the Extra Mile for Their Students Every Day, teachers who speak up at board of education and other town meetings this winter and spring will receive a Teachers Go the Extra Mile T-shirt.
Consider these questions and others as you prepare your comments. Why do you teach the grade level and subject you teach? Why are you proud of what your students are doing right now in your classroom? How have you had a positive impact on your students?
Share from the heart and jot down some notes or write out a statement to deliver at the next board of education meeting. Remember that you are the expert on your students and their growth and successes, and don’t be afraid to speak up as the expert you are.
Almost every board of education meeting allows time for public comment—usually at the beginning of a meeting, and sometimes also at the end. There is often a time limit for comment by members of the public—it’s often three minutes, but try to find out what your board’s time limit is before the meeting. You also may need to sign up before the meeting in order to speak
When you or a colleague speaks at a meeting, make sure someone takes a photo or video. Share photos or videos on social media and tag CEA’s accounts for a chance to be reposted. Email photos, videos, or a copy of a member’s statement to CEA Training and Organizational Development Specialist Katie Grant, and CEA will send the member a Teachers Go the Extra Mile Every Day t-shirt.
Local leaders: find out how to get your whole local association involved and ensure at least one member shares during public comment at every board of education meeting. Contact Katie Grant for more information about how to get involved or if you would like support implementing this campaign in your local.
Not ready to head to your next board of education meeting just yet? You can also share your story about why you teach in written form with CEA. We’ll post member stories on our website to share with legislators to ensure competitive salaries and well-resourced schools.
