In mid-May, I was privileged to be invited to participate with a group of educators from Iowa, Nevada and New Hampshire in Spokesperson Training for early caucus states.  It was held in Washington DC and sponsored by the NEA (National Education Association).  It was a very busy and exciting weekend with a lot of learning and fellowship.  We did get in a trip to see the monuments at night. I am so thankful to the ISEA (Iowa State Education Association) folks for providing this opportunity.  It was very worthwhile, and I am ready to pay it forward.


The two days were very well organized, and I learned so much. On Saturday, we had several sessions with folks sharing their expertise and tips on how to ask and answer questions from the media and to the politicians. The session that was most helpful was facilitated by Christine Clapp.  Christine's credibility is outstanding, and she truly walks her talk.  Check out her website at www.spokenwithauthority.com for helpful tips and resources.  I just ordered her book, Presenting at Work:  A Guide to Public Speaking in Professional Contexts. It looks like a great resource and excellent summer read!


On Sunday morning, we got to practice being interviewed by the media while being videotaped.  We then got critiqued by a member of the NEA staff.  All the leaders were professional and helpful, but I really liked our guy.  Richard Allen Smith is a freelance writer, commentator and veteran who also works with NEA.  His background and credibility helped us learn so much about how to step out of that box to say what you mean and have people listen. Richard is a great role model.  Check out his website at www.therichardallensmith.com or on Twitter @rockrichard.  Of course, no one likes to be taped and watched by everyone in the group.  It is a big step out of most people's comfort zone.  I had been through an experience similar to this years ago and found it terribly intimidating and frightening.  Also, I did an awful job.  I got defensive and talked too fast.  All the things they told us not to do.  This time it was different.  I felt confident. After hearing tips from Richard and my group members, I wanted to keep practicing.


I will keep practicing.  The stakes are just too high.  We must get our stories out there.  We need to advocate for ALL of our students.  It is a critical time in education and if we do not advocate, no one else will! I look forward to sharing more in the future with ISEA and ISCA members.  Thank you again to the ISEA folks who made this incredible experience happen. I look forward to using what I learned!


Advocacy Highlights:

• Stand tall
• Breathe from the belly
• TALK slow
• Less is more
• NO whining
• Use the bridge and pivot
• Stay on message
• Stay student-focused

Written by Susan Langan, ISCA Advocacy Chair