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It sounds funny, but at least where public policy is concerned, it’s true: If you are not at the table, you are probably on the menu.

The educator preparation profession engages in advocacy to help shape policy that will affect the field. While AACTE advocates on behalf of the profession at the federal level, your voice as a constituent is also critical – in Washington, DC, as well as in state and local issues.

Without your input “at the table,” competing interests are more likely to sway policy makers’ decisions – which may end up placing your own interests “on the menu.”

Advocacy is activity in support of a particular cause or policy. Any engagement can be helpful, but successful advocacy is characterized by long-term relationship-building. Establishing and sustaining connections with policy makers, agency leaders, and even the media can position you as a trusted expert, and developing alliances with other education stakeholders can help you support and amplify each other’s messages.

Explore the federal and state advocacy links: you’ll find many resources, including downloadable policy guides and hyperlinks to key government sites to support your work or just to build your advocacy knowledge and skills.

Read back issues of “AACTE Talks Policy”: This bi-weekly newsletter for all AACTE members is your go-to source for the latest federal and state policy news affecting educator preparation. If it doesn’t yet come to your inbox, sign up to receive it.

Attend Washington Week: Every spring, AACTE members gather in Washington, DC to learn about the latest federal policy issues, hone their advocacy skills, and make their case directly to lawmakers on Capitol Hill.

Connect with your state organization: AACTE’s network of affiliated state organizations are the voice of educator preparation in state capitols around the country. Use the state organization map to get connected.

Check back often for new information: as the policy landscape often shifts rapidly. AACTE will help you stay nimble and ready to engage on behalf of your programs and the profession.