5. Political Influence & Governance
a. Exhibit an understanding of school districts as a political system - including government models
b. Demonstrate the ability to involve stakeholders in the development of education policy
c. Understand the role and coordination of social agencies and human services
d. Demonstrate the ability to align constituencies to support and build coalition for program and finances
Reflection
Schools today are becoming political institutions. They have many mandates from the federal and state government that they must follow. Issues such as funding, school choice, Q Comp or pro pay, enrollment, and testing are just a few of the reasons that it is critical for the school leader to see their school and district as part of a political system. It is important for school leaders to understand how these policies and programs affect staff, students and families and will impact their buildings. Leaders must also understand and properly implement these programs to ensure they are meeting the requirements set upon them.
Other government agencies such as the state department of education and human services also play a role in schools in various ways. They often provide funding and support to schools and programs. During my field experience, I had the opportunity to work with the Minnesota Department of Education on a grant that we wrote at Eagle Ridge Junior High for Alternatives to Suspension. The grant was offered to school districts to receive funding from the Minnesota Department of Education for implementing strategies that will reduce suspension and out of school discipline. Eagle Ridge was awarded $20,000 for the program and I was able to serve on the team that implemented it in our school. My artifact shows a PowerPoint presentation that I used during training with our staff on the new policies and procedures of the program. I was able to participate in webinars and trainings with the Minnesota Department of Education and other schools that received the grant.
I also had the opportunity to participate in lobby day at the Capitol during my field experience. As shown in my artifact, I met with various Legislators throughout the day and sat in on hearings relevant to education. This experience allowed me to understand the impact that our state government has on education and our schools. I found it especially interesting to hear about decisions that are made at the Capitol that will directly impact what occurs in the classroom. It is very important as a constituent to be able to share your ideas and concerns with those who represent you. By participating in lobby day I was allowed to do so.
These experiences have helped me realize the importance of the government and agencies in school policy and funding. As a future school leader, I must ensure that my knowledge of policies, procedures, mandates, and funding by political institutions is savvy. It is very important for school leaders to have the knowledge of political entities that they will need to take into consideration. Collaborating with the district and community will be beneficial for school leaders when aligning programs and building support for programs.
Artifacts
Lobby Day at the Capitol
Lobby Day Agenda.pdf (67,7 kB)