Close to 50 advocate for our schools during Jefferson City trip

Communicating with our state elected officials and advocating for public schools are top priorities for Cooperating School Districts. As part of this effort, our organization was well represented during CSDGKC’s second annual Legislative Day at the Capitol, held on February 25. 

Around 50 superintendents, assistant superintendents, Board of Education members and students joined Dr. Kenny Southwick, CSD executive director, and Paul Shrout, CSD director of business services. Many of the attendees had participated in CSD’s Education Policy Leadership Program and Advanced Education Policy Leadership Program. 

The advocates met with state senators and representatives and discussed issues faced by the school districts. Several group members also spent time on the legislative floor and in the gallery.

“Reaching our elected officials is more important than ever before,” Dr. Southwick said, “and we get more mileage out of that personal contact. We hope to be able to grow the event each year.”

To help prepare for the Jefferson City visit, the participants met virtually with Steve Carroll, CSDGKC’s legislative liaison. 

Throughout the General Assembly’s session, Mr. Carroll provides CSDGKC members with a weekly report sharing legislative activity and valuable insights. Mr. Carroll, a former member of the Missouri House of Representatives and respected legislative liaison.

He also offers perspective at three annual CSDGKC meetings beginning with a preview of anticipated legislation each fall. Additional meetings include a summary of the General Assembly session during June as well as one other meeting during the five-month session. 

Another critical component of CSD’s advocacy efforts is its legislative platform, and CSDGKC staff collaborate with superintendents to set the annual platform priorities each year. Education leaders are encouraged to share the platform with district stakeholders so they can also advocate for their schools and communities.