MONTGOMERY COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS * OFFICE OF INSTRUCTION AND PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT

Advocacy Is Focused Persuasion

1. What is the issue?
2. What is the goal?
3. What information is needed and where is it found?
4. Who will help?
5. Who will do what tasks?
6. When must each task be done?
7. Who are the decision makers and when and where are they available?
8. What solutions can be proposed?
9. What was the outcome in terms of the goal?
10. What are the next steps?

1. What is the importance of the issue to your PTA’s mission and goals, and how does it fit with other agendas?
2. Is it consistent with PTA principles, previous work and vision?
3. How will addressing this issue set the PTA up for future campaigns?
4. Is the issue "winnable" and worthwhile? How will it benefit young people, schools and the community?
5. What is the desired outcome? Who needs the change?
6. Can the issue be made understandable to those without a stake in it?
7. Is there a clear time frame and adequate resources?
8. Is there a strong constituency base? Will there be enough buy-in from members?

• Know who to write and where and when.
• Define your issue.
• Keep it simple.
• Illustrate your points with personal stories.
• Suggest what you want done.
• Keep a copy of your letter and any responses.
• Follow-up with a phone call.
• Write down your points before you call.
• Be courteous, knowledgeable, and brief.
• Keep a record of what was said.
• Follow up with a letter.

Who do you turn to?

• Family, friends
• Co-workers, neighbors
• Groups that define you i.e., places of worship, clubs, sports team
• Your local PTA, state PTA, national PTA

What other allies could you have?

• League of Women Voters
• Chambers of commerce
• Professional organizations

…. On advocacy, contact your local PTA.

Or contact: Maryland PTA

3121 St. Paul Street, Suite 25

Baltimore Maryland 21218

Phone: (410) 235-7290

Fax: (410) 235-0537

This document was adopted with permission from the National PTA.