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[JandJmom]

Well, now that the budget whirlwind is done, I want to share an idea I had during the process.  What if OPE held a session(s) for parents to help them read and understand the proposed budget and the impact on their school and how to advocate for change.  Maybe hold it at a school's computer lab so everyone could be on-line looking at the document.  There could be information about who your board rep is and how to contact them as well as name and contact info for the appropriate "powers that be" that may be able to influence the budget.  Clarify what is a local principal's choice vs. district choice.  It's great that the budget is online, but it is certainly a very intimidating document.  The session could be facilitated by both OPE staff and experienced parent advocates sharing what has worked for them. 

What do you think?

[Hilary]

I think this is a GREAT idea. We can't advocate for our children if we can't find out what is going on until it is too late.

[beanqueen]

I think it's pretty a radical and interesting idea!

I can't help thinking though, that overall, it's kinda like the hens asking the foxes to show them how they get in at night, so the hens can board up the gaps...

[JandJmom]

Yeah, but if you can get the foxes to do it, why not try??

[Dorothy Evans-Flaherty]

Hello Parents,

I asked Gladys for her input on your idea and she replied, "Sounds  good - perhaps  the session(s) could  be  scheduled before the  budget is  released."     

If you are interested in participating in this type of session, if offered or would like to serve on the session development group, please let me know. 

Hilary, is there a virtual workspace on the Forum that would enable us to meet and work in an on-line format?

If we can get the workshop finalized during the summer perhaps it can be offered through OPE's Parent University?


Keep the suggestions coming, as your ideas are helpful in developing the programming you as parents want.

Take care and Happy Mother's Day!

Dorothy

[Hilary]

Dorothy

That's beyond my area of expertise but no, I don't think we have any kind of virtual workspace available.  Does the District?

I think that would be a great OPE offering.

Thanks!

Hilary