MinnCAN’s
Teacher Advocacy Toolkit
School
action 1
School Snapshot
Is your school getting it done? Does your school have policies and practices that promote excellence? Build your own assessment to start thinking about next steps for a stronger school!
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You [teachers] work with our students every day and can truly have a powerful influence as we work together to ensure that every child gets the best educational experience possible. Thank you for all that you do!
Representative Anna WillsLegislator -
It is imperative that teachers become advocates for their students and their profession, since they will be crucial to the success of any reform...As a policy leader, I want teachers to bring their personal experiences and points of view.
Senator Eric PrattLegislator -
Understanding the importance of every teacher's voice is a critical starting point for meaningful dialogue on the future of education.
Senator Branden PetersenLegislator -
As we consider the challenges of educating our next generation of learners we ask our teachers, our most important asset, to lead us in developing policies and best practices that propel and transform our young learners into being all they can dream.
Senator Terri BonoffLegislator -
You can shape public policy if you are present, not if you are absent. Teacher advocacy is critical in developing sound education policy.
Senator Melisa FranzenLegislator -
Teachers should be engaged in education policy because it is incredibly fulfilling to be a part of creating change that reaches further than the walls of your classroom.
Luke WinspurMath Teacher, Shakopee High School -
Teachers need to be a part of education policy because their daily direct contact with students ensures that best practice is kept in mind when considering policy decisions.
Andy NelsonMusic Teacher, Ramsey Middle School -
Teachers know education from the micro to the macro and our advocacy is the key to creating the best experience possible for every one of our kids.
Elissa Cedarleaf DahlTeacher, Minneapolis Public Schools -
Teachers should be involved in education policy because they are the ones on the front lines. They are the ones that will be impacted by the policy.
Christine DavesParent, Minneapolis Public Schools
Action 2
Institutional support
School change requires support from your colleagues! Use this tool to uncover the levels of support on your staff.
Prepared by the Search Institute.
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Action 3
External assets questions
External Assets are the structures, relationships and activities that create a positive work environment. As you work to improve your school, this tool can be a helpful guide.
Prepared by the Search Institute.
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Action 4
Now what? Ideas to action prompts
Make a commitment to increasing support in your workplace. Once you are aware of the level of support on your staff, use this tool to create an action plan with next steps for a healthier school culture.
Prepared by the Search Institute.
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