Shine a Light Series

3 Opportunities to Learn from Guest Experts

The Shine a Light Series offers 3 engagement opportunities with various experts who are versed in public relations. This series is designed to help leaders consider opportunities to better share the importance of public education and how best to engage with policymakers to depict the concept of being Public Education Proud. Participants can choose to attend all or just some of the sessions.

Not Everyone Sees the Light

Session 1

  • September 28

  • 10-11:30 AM

  • Lindenwood in Springfield MO

Taking time to understand the perspectives of policymakers will give school leaders more insight and information to strategically address root causes for decreasing statewide support for public schools. Our presenter, Mr. James Harris, has many years working with state policymakers and has excellent insight into the current political context related to public schools. Mr. Harris will make suggestions for how to proactively address negative connotations and how best to demonstrate Public Education Proud.

Illuminating Advice from Media Experts

Session 2

  • Oct 11

  • 10-11:30 AM

  • Library Center in Springfield MO

For years, many of us have watched Ethan and Sara Forhetz on KY3 covering local news and educational related stories. They are now using their public relations and communication talents for the non-for-profit work of Convoy of Hope. Their years of experience provide excellent insight for how school leaders can help to create a more supportive environment for education in your community.

Enlighten our Policymakers

Session 3

  • Nov 10

  • 4:30-6:30 PM

  • Virtual

As the new legislative session begins in January, it is important to be apprised of statewide and regional Legislators' current perceptions of Public Education. Senator Karla Eslinger will share some examples for how school leaders can best communicate with policymakers. Jason Dial, current Missouri Association for School Administrator’s Public Education Lobbyist, will share some legislative bills and their potential impact on public education.

Dr. Sarah Booth Riss, Director of the Missouri Superintendents Academy, will discuss various ways to connect with and build relationships with legislators. This session will also provide training for our GOKey Communicators. If you served as a GOKey Communicator in the Spring of 2022 and wish to serve again this school year, you will need to register.

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, Shine a Light Series, GOKey Communicators Program, and the Public School Proud Bulletin.

Teacher Proud

Shine a Light Series

GOKey Communicators

Public School Proud Bulletin

More Professional Learning Opportunities

Explore other professional learning events and content in our on-demand catalog.