As residents of Tennessee, every individual has a stake in public education, whether they are students, parents, teachers, taxpayers, or community members. Education plays a vital role in shaping the future of the state, its workforce, and its society as a whole.
Since public education is influenced and governed by public policy decisions made by elected officials, it’s crucial for people to engage in the process if they want to have a say in the direction of education in their state. This involvement can take various forms:
- Voting: Participating in local and state elections to choose representatives who will shape education policies.
- Advocacy: Contacting elected officials, attending public meetings, and participating in community discussions to voice opinions and concerns about education policies.
- Community Engagement: Collaborating with schools, attending parent-teacher association meetings, and joining school improvement committees to contribute to the development of educational initiatives.
- Awareness and Education: Staying informed about educational issues, trends, and policies so you can make informed decisions and effectively advocate for change.
- Partnerships: Forming partnerships with educators, administrators, and other stakeholders to collectively work towards improving education quality and access.
By actively engaging in these ways, Tennesseans can influence the policies that shape public education, ensuring that it aligns with the needs and aspirations of their communities and supports the growth and development of the state as a whole.
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JC Bowman is the executive director of Professional Educators of Tennessee
JC Bowman 