Being an effective advocate for public education is a year-round process that requires board members to stay informed about the issues and know how to use their community connections to get their messages out.

Here are some tips:

• Refer to NJSBA’s Core Beliefs: The Core Beliefs statement addresses school funding, property tax reform, consolidation, placing administrative functions at the county level, school board elections, and other concepts. It is board members’ primary reference when addressing legislative issues. For a copy of the Core Beliefs, visit http://www.njsba.org/home2004/core-beliefs.pdf
  
  
• Contact NJSBA staff: Board members can speak to a live person who can inform them about the details and the implications of legislative initiatives and their impact on districts. To reach NJSBA’s Governmental Relations Department, call (888) 886-5722, ext. 5215.
  
  
• Read School Board Notes: It’s the single most accurate place to find updated information about ongoing Association advocacy efforts.
  
  
• Check the NJSBA Web site. Given the fast-paced activity of the Legislature’s special session on property tax reform, there have been frequent updates about the status of bills that affect local boards of education. NJSBA’s Web site allows board members to learn about new developments as they occur. Check the “In the News…” section of the homepage and the Special Sessions Resource section.
  
  
• Share Your Knowledge: Regularly meet with area legislators, with the aim of building relationships. This is an opportunity for legislators to hear from their constituents, who will be directly affected by their proposals. This is often the most effective way to influence the outcome of legislative action. No one is more qualified than you to talk about your local school district and what is going on within it. Also, talk to your friends and neighbors about the issues affecting their public schools.