From Teacher to Changemaker: Strategies for Self and Systemic Advocacy

Outline

CONTENT AND ENGAGEMENT

Introduction (5 minutes)
- Warm welcome and brief self-introduction
- Set the stage by highlighting the importance of advocacy in education
- Briefly outline the session's objectives and the three-phase approach (Prepare, Persuade, Pursue)
- Engagement: Interactive poll to gauge attendees' current comfort levels with advocacy conversations

Phase 1: Prepare (15 minutes)
- Define the importance of preparation in advocacy
- Key elements of preparation: Setting clear objectives, Managing time effectively, Crafting actionable requests, Reflecting on broader impact
- Engagement:
1) Pair-share activity: Participants brainstorm potential advocacy scenarios and identify their objectives
2) Brief discussion on common challenges in the preparation phase

Phase 2: Persuade (20 minutes)
- Explore the art of persuasion in advocacy conversations
- Key strategies for persuasion: Using “If…then…” statements, Employing power words, Posing thoughtful questions, Seeking agreement and outlining expectations
- Engagement:
1) Role-play activity: Participants practice using persuasive language and framing techniques in simulated scenarios
2) Group discussion on overcoming potential obstacles in the persuasion phase

Phase 3: Pursue (15 minutes)
- Emphasize the importance of follow-up and accountability
- Key tactics for pursuit: Utilizing email templates
Requesting read receipts, Conducting verbal check-ins, Scheduling follow-up meetings
- Engagement:
1) Device-based activity: Participants create a sample follow-up email using a provided template
2) Q&A session to address any concerns or questions about the pursuit phase

Conclusion (5 minutes)
-Recap the three-phase approach and key takeaways
-Encourage participants to implement these strategies in their professional lives
-Provide additional resources for further learning and development
-Engagement: Final reflection activity: Participants write down one concrete action they will take to improve their advocacy skills

TIME

Introduction: 5 minutes
Phase 1: Prepare: 15 minutes
Phase 2: Persuade: 20 minutes
Phase 3: Pursue: 15 minutes
Conclusion: 5 minutes

PROCESS

-Frequent and Varied Engagement: The session incorporates a mix of interactive activities every 10-15 minutes to maintain audience attention and promote active learning.
-Peer-to-Peer Interaction: Pair-share and group discussions encourage collaboration and the sharing of diverse perspectives.
-Device-Based Activities: Utilizes technology for practical application and skill-building.
-Role-Play and Simulations: Provides opportunities for participants to practice new skills in a safe and supportive environment.
-Q&A Sessions: Allows for addressing individual questions and concerns.
-Reflection Activities: Encourages self-assessment and goal-setting for continued growth.

Supporting research

Articles:

"The Power of Teacher Voice: Advocating for Students and Our Profession" by Elena Aguilar - This article explores the importance of teacher advocacy and provides practical tips for finding your voice and making a difference.

"How to Advocate for Yourself (and Your Students) at Work" by WeAreTeachers - This article offers concrete strategies for teachers to effectively advocate for themselves and their students in their professional environments.

"The Educator's Guide to Effective Communication" by ASCD - This guide provides a comprehensive overview of communication skills essential for educators, including active listening, assertive communication, and conflict resolution.

Books:

"Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High" by Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, Ron McMillan, and Al Switzler - This widely acclaimed book offers a framework for navigating challenging conversations with clarity and respect, applicable to various professional contexts, including education.  

Recognized Experts:

Elena Aguilar: A renowned author, speaker, and coach specializing in teacher leadership and social-emotional learning. Her work emphasizes the importance of self-care and advocacy for educators.

Hamish Brewer: Also known as "The Tattooed Skateboarding Principal," Brewer is a passionate advocate for student-centered learning and teacher empowerment. His dynamic approach to leadership inspires educators to find their voice and make a positive impact.

Other Documentation:

ISTE Standards for Educators: These standards highlight the importance of educators being collaborators, leaders, and advocates for their students and profession.

Transformative Learning Principles: These principles emphasize the need for equity and agency in education, aligning with the core values of this session.