Techniques October 2012 - 38

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Undersecretary of Education Martha J. Kanter addressed the 2012 ACTE National Policy Seminar attendees at the opening general session.

with some tips I hope will help you to be a better advocate for CTE: 1. Learn and understand ACTE’s (or your state association’s) legislative positions and how to efficiently communicate with your elected representatives. 2. Help educate other members within your schools and states on the important issues and why it is important to become involved in the political process. 3. Establish and develop a continuing personal relationship with your elected officials. As a constituent and an expert, your opinion will be asked. It is important to be knowledgeable on the current federal and state legislation. 4. Maintain your constituent relationship to keep communication open. 5. Stay updated on your district and state legislators’ voting history and activities. Express your opinion on

your legislators’ recent activities, and your stature as an advocate will grow, as will their understanding of ACTE’s policy positions. 6. Invite your legislators to various community activities like small social gatherings or award ceremonies with students or other professionals present. 7. Invite congressional members to tour your school. This will allow them to be truly immersed in what you do every day. 8. Stay up to date on upcoming local political functions and fundraisers. 9. Become involved personally and financially in a campaign of a local incumbent or candidate who is a proponent of CTE issues. 10. Keep your state and national ACTE membership current. Consider serving as an officer or as a legislative committee representative for your division. 11. Vote! Vote! Vote!

Kimberly Moody
As a first-time NPS attendee, prior to my arrival in Washington, DC, I was so excited about all the opportunities the seminar would offer. At the opening general session, there was so much anticipation in the air and positive energy abounded as Undersecretary of Education Martha J. Kanter addressed the ACTE NPS attendees. On the first day of the seminar, I particularly benefitted from the workshop tailored to first-time attendees. At this session, ideas were shared about how to conduct a congressional visit, what information should be shared with legislators and how to maximize advocacy efforts during our time in Washington and throughout the year in our state and local communities. Through the state planning roundtable session, my colleagues and I were able to refine our plan for visiting our legislators on Capitol Hill the next day. Setting aside this time during the conference schedule
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Techniques

October 2012

Techniques October 2012

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