Happy Teaching with CLASS Thursday!
When was the last time you raised your voice about what is happening in the education field? It can be scary to speak out, even when we know we have important things to say. In this episode, we are talking about advocacy with Jake Stewart, currently the Director of State Government Relations at the Early Care & Education Consortium, but he started in the classroom as an educator.
Jake helps us to learn about the ways you can advocate for yourselves as educators, and why all of our voices are so important in this fight, especially right now. It's a longer episode than most, but it is full of really impactful and meaningful conversation!
If advocacy has ever felt scary or intimidating, you are not alone! Jake helps to break it down into small and large ways to get involved. We will also follow up with Jake after the midterm elections this year to continue the conversation!
How did this episode make you feel? What plans do you have to raise your voice? Be sure to come back and tell us how you got involved after you listen to this episode!
I can't wait to hear your thoughts!
Best,
Allison
Key takeaways
- Your voice is needed - and sooner rather than later. Advocates would love for your to raise your voice by the end of the year, specifically to Congress so that they understand the need for a bipartisan deal for childcare in early learning.
- If you're on the fence about getting involved, break it down into something manageable.
- Make sure to advocate in a way that is comfortable for you & bring the skills you already have to the table. You're the expert!
- It can feel uncomfortable to ask for more, but you deserve more. The job you are doing is already selfless, so try not to feel weird or uncomfortable asking for things you need. This is what your students deserve as well.
- There are many ways to advocate: formal, informal, talking to a neighbor, going to the school board, even a town hall, or talking to your state or federal government to name some options.
- Your story is powerful! It's not just about your classroom, it's about your livelihood, and your well-being
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Allison Bloomfield
Silver Spring MD
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