10 Ways Education Leaders Can Connect with
Legislators & Elected Leaders
Are you looking for ways to share the story of your district with your legislators and elected leaders? The following are ten suggestions you may consider.
- Invite legislators and elected leaders to speak at school or district events: back-to-school events, ribbon cuttings ceremonies for new or renovated facilities, professional development days, career days, etc.
- Host regular meetings with legislators and other elected leaders in your area to discuss the state of your district. Highlight district accomplishments. Share workforce needs, demographic changes, and other vital information about your district.
- Invite legislators and elected leaders to participate in principal- or superintendent-for-the-day programs.
- Attend events sponsored by your legislators, your mayor, your council member, etc. Many legislators and elected leaders host town halls or special events before, during, and after the session.
- Build relationships with staff members who oversee public education matters. Offer to introduce those staffers to other school leaders and community leaders.
- Invite legislators and elected leaders to a school board meeting. Ask your legislators to share what is on the horizon for the upcoming legislative session and/or to provide a legislative wrap-up when the session ends. Ask your mayor to provide an update on city initiatives and issues important to the city.
- Post positive social media messages on public education matters happening in your school district and/or posts thanking your legislator and elected leaders for their efforts on behalf of public education and students. Tag your legislators and elected leaders in the posts.
- Highlight legislative success from the previous session in district newsletters. Share how the legislation specifically impacts your district. Consider highlighting the work of your local city council and the issues they have addressed in the past year.
- Employ the “buddy system” for introducing new leaders to legislators and elected officials.
- Invite legislators or elected leaders to a local community event and offer to provide introductions.