The goal of GOKey Communicators is to create a network of local community members, retired teachers, current teachers and preservice teachers who regularly communicate with regional legislators about the effects of proposed legislation on their local school districts. Some legislators may have a negative perception of school leaders, which results in the needs of students going unheard. The assumption is that legislators are likely more willing to discuss these concerns with community members versus school superintendents and administrators.
For those Members who wish to participate, GOCSD organizes free training and on-going support. This program is one component of GOCSD's Public Education Proud Initiative.
School Leaders identify potential candidates to serve as GOKey Communicators, share this webpage with them, and encourage them to register.
School Leaders register themselves in order to get the link to join the virtual sessions and to be included in all communications.
If you are a school leader, educator or a community member invited by a school leader, please use the button below to register 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.
The initial Enlighten Our Policymakers training is available on-demand in our Professional Learning Catalog.
As the new legislative session begins in January, it is important to be apprised of statewide and regional Legislator’s current perception of Public Education. There is a need to build relationships with legislators, and to find ways to communicate even when there may be some disagreement.
One of southwest Missouri’s strongest Public Education advocates is State Senator Karla Eslinger. She shares some examples for how we can best communicate with state policymakers. She will share insight for what she believes will be the focus for the legislative session.
Dr. Sarah Booth Riss, Director of the Missouri Superintendents Academy, discusses various ways to connect and build relationships with legislators.
Bimonthly meetings February - May
4:30-5 PM
Virtual
Free
To provide ongoing support for these public education advocates, the group will touch base virtually for 30 minutes, twice a month. During these visits participants will be invited to share their experiences, discuss concerns or challenges that they need help addressing, and be provided with updates around key pertinent legislative issues.
Meeting Dates: TBA
Facilitators: Dr. Jason Dial and Dr. Pam Hedgpeth
Check back later for details on future field trips to Jefferson City to meet with legislators in person.
If you are a school leader, educator or a community member invited by a school leader, please use the button below to register 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.
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, Shine a Light Series, GOKey Communicators Program, and the Public School Proud Bulletin.
Explore other professional learning events and content in our on-demand catalog.