CSTP seeking teacher advocates for teaching quality

The Center for Strengthening the Teaching Profession is seeking teachers from across Washington willing to act as spokespersons in their community advocating for state and local policies that support quality teaching. This cadre will talk with legislators, editorial boards, reporters, district administrators and other policymakers about instructional quality and the supports we need to make sure every student receives quality instruction every day.

If you are comfortable speaking in front of the media and/or a crowd and would be interested in representing our profession in a public way, please consider joining us August 10-12 in Wenatchee. We will help you refine your the skills in order to 1) interact with the media (both broadcast and print) 2) build relationships with local writers and editors 3) identify and use strategic opportunities to communicate positive messages about quality teaching, and 4) deliver messages about quality teaching
succinctly and effectively.

To apply, complete the questionnaire below by June 15, 2004. Those selected will be notified by June 30th. Questions? Contact Jeanne Harmon at jeanne@cstp-wa.org

Name:

Home Address:

City: Zip:

Home Phone:

School, district, teaching assignment:

School phone:

Summer Email:

1. Please describe your public speaking experience:

2. Please describe any interaction you have had with the media (radio, t.v., print)

3. Have you ever proactively responded to a media story (ie. written a letter to the editor, called a talk radio show)? If yes, please briefly describe the circumstances and evidence of impact.

4. Please list any community activities you are currently engaged in (personal and/or professional):

5. Please list three references. We prefer one reference to be a colleague/fellow teacher or school employee, one to be a community member/parent, and one to be an administrator/supervisor.

6. Please describe why you believe it is important to speak out on issues affecting teacher quality (100 words or less).

7. What evidence can you provide that would demonstrate you are an accomplished teacher (150 words or less)?

Mail your response to:

Jeanne Harmon
Executive Director
Center for Strengthening the Teaching Profession
P.O. Box 1246
Silverdale, WA 98383-1246

Or email: j_harmon@cstp-wa.org

Or fax: 360-337-1148