Full Description
THE BOOK FOR EVERY TEACHER WHO HAS EVER BEEN FRUSTRATED BY THE DECISIONS MADE OUTSIDE THEIR SCHOOL THAT AFFECT THE STUDENTS INSIDE THEIR SCHOOL.
How to Be Heard offers every teacher 10 ways to successfully amplify his or her voice, and demonstrates that when teachers' voices are heard, they will be rightfully recognized and supported as change leaders in their schools. Celine Coggins, a renowned teacher advocate, offers nuts-and-bolts strategies that are recognized as the "price of admission" to becoming a credible and welcomed participant in important policy conversations and decisions. The author clearly demonstrates that it is not only possible for teachers to initiate change, but to also effectively participate on the policy playing field.
In ten clear chapters, the author demonstrates how teachers can and must advocate for their students and their profession. Throughout this book Coggins proves that "If you're not at the table, you're on the menu."
This how-to guide is filled with concrete ideas for engaging in productive decision-making, using real-world examples from teachers who have successfully used these strategies.
Contents
About the Author vii
Foreword ix
Acknowledgments xiii
Preface xv
CHAPTER ONE: Storytelling.
LESSON: Advocacy Starts with Your Why 1
CHAPTER TWO: Expertise.
LESSON: There Are No Experts 19
CHAPTER THREE: History.
LESSON: The Policies That Impact Your
Classroom Are Not Random 37
CHAPTER FOUR: Language.
LESSON: Bilingualism Is the Price of
Admission to Decision Making 61
CHAPTER FIVE: Equity.
LESSON: Equity Is Everything (and Nothing) 83
CHAPTER SIX: Resources.
LESSON: "Is It Good for Kids?" Is the Wrong Question 101
CHAPTER SEVEN: Accountability.
LESSON: Accountability Is Inescapable 119
CHAPTER EIGHT: Individuals and Groups.
LESSON: There Is No Such Thing as One Best Policy for All 135
CHAPTER NINE: Power.
LESSON: If You're Not at the Table, You're on the Menu 151
CHAPTER TEN: Taking Action.
LESSON: Your Story Has to Meet the Moment 169
Index 183
