How Do We Do It?
Choosing an issue
Often there are more child related issues than a PTA can effectively address. So how do we decide where we will focus our advocacy efforts? First, we focus on an issue, not a problem. For example, crowded classrooms are a problem; the larger issue could be inadequate facilities or lack of staff.
After determining the issues, the following concerns need to be addressed:
- Does the issue fit with PTA's Purposes and Mission?
- How does the issue concern children and youth in the school and/or the community?
- What is the desired outcome?
- Can the issue be made understandable to those within and outside of PTA?
- Is the issue a winner?
Researching the issue
Know as much as possible about the background of the issue
- Find as many sources of information about the issue as possible
- Research the arguments both for and against
- Know who supports and opposes the issue
- Conduct surveys and opinion polls in the community
Communicating the issue
An effective campaign is built on activities and events that keep it on the radar screen. The following actions are key to an advocacy campaign:
- Design a strong, understandable message
- Reach out to your members. Survey them to find out how they feel. Target newsletters and membership meetings to get out the message
- Reach out
to the community. Establish coalitions for broader support