TEPSA Voting Series: Tips for Campus Administrators

TEPSA President, Eddie Damian advocates for our kids and for public education

TEPSA President, Eddie Damian, understands the importance of standing up for our public schools. He studies the issues, touches base with the TEPSA Legislative Network, makes relationships with his legislators and their aides...and, he votes. Eddie knows that "if we are to safeguard the integrity of our public schools, to ensure that all children receive a great education, we must get involved in the legislative process." And, that begins with voting!

Harley Eckhart, the executive director of TEPSA and a longtime advocate to public education knows the crucial role we all can play in the 'politics of education.' Harley said recently, "As educators and leaders in out communities, we can influence the future of public education, but only if we vote. We can't just complain. We have to act. We have to vote."

As a school principal, what can you do? TEPSA wants to keep you in the bounds of the law and of your school district policies. Principals can legitimately give information regarding issues and how elections might impact education. Principals can create a culture of voting. Principals can have a huge impact on voting. Maybe this can help:

Lead your campus to 100% voter turnout, because voting is an important part of the community's culture.

Remind your staff and patrons the the results of Texas elections for state government have an impact on the funding, staffing, and academic excellence of their neighborhood school.

Post reminders for staff and patrons to VOTE on marquees, including dates and voting locations, especially during Early Voting.

Host before school "Muffins with Moms" and "Donuts with Dads," encouraging them to vote during Early Voting or on Voting Day.

Place printed voter reminder notes in staff mailboxes (according to your school district's policies).

Promote voting among all district employees. Challenge each campus to have a 100% voter turnout to win the district percentage of voters. Model for staff by wearing an "I Voted" badge or sticker during Early Voting and on November 8.

Hold mock elections with students to teach them the importance of exercising their right to vote.

Allow employees to leave campus during planning periods, at lunch, or when students leave immediately after school to vote early. Be ready to cover classes, lunch, or planning periods so that the teachers can vote.

Organize an art contest where students design voting posters. Display the artwork throughout the school and in local store windows and restaurants. Create a unique emblem or design and display it as artwork each time voting is mentioned...your school's own get out the vote emblem.

Inspire the twenty-something staff members to get involved and vote as that age group typically votes in low numbers. Social networks offer a great tool.

Teach parents about the impact of legislative action on their child's school and why elections matter.

TEPSA is teaming with like-minded organizations to develop 'a culture of voting' among educators. Do your part to support public education. Visit http://www.texaseducatorsvote.com to find out more. Our next few blogs will begin to zero in on specific races and issues. Check back often!