Advocating for Public Education
⚙️ Systems Thinking 💻 Virtual & 🪑 Seated 🆓 Free for Members
What are GOKey Communicators?
The goal of the GOKey Communicators program is to bring together community members who are passionate about public education and want to make a difference in the lives of students in their communities. GOKey Communicators regularly contact regional legislators about:
the impact of proposed legislation on students in their communities
the importance of public education
the good things that are happening in their schools
For our GOCSD members who are committed to serving as GOKey Communicators, we provide free training and a community of support.
Why Participate?
There is a need to build relationships with legislators and work together for the betterment of our students, even when there may be some disagreement.
Dialogue with legislators is more fruitful when led by engaged community members, as opposed to school administrators. Some legislators harbor negative perceptions about school leaders, which can result in the needs of students going unheard.
It is important to be informed about legislators' perceptions of public education and the pertinent legislative issues in the state and region as the legislative session begins in January.
GOKey Communicators can become a vital link between the educational community and those shaping legislative decisions.
This free program provides the opportunity to stay connected, stay informed, and make a lasting impact on public education.
Who Should Participate?
GOKey Communicators are local community members, parents, retired educators, current educators, and preservice teachers who are interested in advocating for public education and the needs of students in their communities.
The superintendent of districts participating in the program, or their designee, needs to commit to joining the sessions to stay informed and connected with the work.
How do we get Started?
In September, district administrators identify potential candidates to serve as GOKey Communicators, share this webpage with them, and encourage them to register. Participants can continue to register throughout the school year.
District administrators register themselves in order to get the link to join the virtual sessions and be included in all communications.
Program
For those GOCSD Members who wish to participate, we organize free training, on-going support, and opportunities to connect with legislators. The GOKey Communicators program provides participants with the knowledge, skills, and support they need to advocate for students in their communities and public education.
If you are a school leader, educator, or a community member invited by a district administrator, please use the buttons below to register for free if you wish to participate. If you have already served as a GOKey Communicator and wish to serve again this school year, you will need to register.
Oct 15, 2024
4:30-6 PM
Springfield MO
Join us for this engaging session exploring the current landscape of public education perceptions. We'll delve into why attitudes have shifted recently and explore the perspectives of various stakeholders in your community.
Dec 12, 2024
4:30-5 PM
Virtual
Participants will gain an understanding of the key legislative bills and be provided with talking points to use when speaking with legislators. This session will equip GOKey Communicators and their District Leaders with essential background information, as we move into the legislative session and begin our bi-monthly Tuesday check-ins.
Jan 22, 2025
4:30-6 PM
SE Seated
This component has 2 pieces. First is the on-boarding session that provides everything needed to get started as a GOKey Communicator. Participants will learn how to build relationships with legislators and effectively communicate with them. When registering attendees can select which session they want to join.
The second piece is the Check-in sessions. Participants will be invited to virtual bimonthly Check-in sessions. These sessions will start in January, and happen on Tuesdays from 4:30-5 PM. Participants will share their experiences and receive legislative updates.
If you are a Southwest Member please contact Pam Hedgpeth to find out how to get more information about being a GOKEY communicator.
March 2025
In-Person
In the spring, a Jefferson City Field Trip will provide the opportunity for GOKey Communicators and their District Leader to meet with legislators in person.
Additional Opportunity
Jan 9
Systems Thinking | Highly Effective Teaching & Leading
SW Seated | Paid
Public Education Proud Initiative
To advocate for Public Education at the local, state and national levels, GOCSD is providing members many opportunities to showcase what it means to be Public Education Proud (PEP). The Public Education Proud efforts includes: Teacher Proud Campaign, GOKey Communicators Program, GOInnovate Grant, and the Public School Proud Bulletin.
