Trails to Success Working with School Boards on

Trails to Success: Working with School Boards on School Wellness Policy Jill Hutson The Rede Group

Getting started School Policy Change Where am I?

Basic Policy Change Structure School Policy School Boards School Administrators

STEP 1 Steps to Working with School Boards 1. Understand the system

STEP 1 System Approach Systems Mapping

Steps to Working with School Boards 1. 2. Understand the system Organize support and begin to strategize

STEP 2 Organize support Who are stakeholders? Nutrition services staff Health & PE Teachers Parents Students Administrators SNAP- Ed Coordinators

STEP 2 Reach out to potential Supporters One-on-one meetings Personal emails Blast emails Networking

STEP 2 Strategize How will you approach the situation Discuss options Review Options

STEP 2 Communication Make group a plan for communication among your

Steps to Working with School Boards 1. 2. 3. Understand the system Organize support and begin to strategize Do your homework

STEP 3 Do your homework Learn about current policy Know the issue, inside and out Know the model policy Understand the chain of command Attend School Board meetings Get to know the school board and their (individual) leanings on school wellness Understand opposing arguments

STEP 3 Allies and Opponents The rule of thirds

Steps to Working with School Boards 1. 2. 3. 4. Understand the system Organize support and begin to strategize Do your homework Prepare a solid rationale

STEP 4 Prepare a Solid Rationale Prepare a solid rationale Explain why school wellness policies are critical Speak to cost Find examples/testimonials of other districts

Steps to Working with School Boards 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Understand the system Organize support and begin to strategize Do your homework Prepare a solid rationale Present and pass the policy

STEP 5 Present the policy Get the policy on the School Board agenda Present to the policy Ø Ø Pack the room Alert supporters about the meeting Select spokes people carefully Make sure your message is clear and consistent

Steps to Working with School Boards 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Understand the system Organize support and begin to strategize Do your homework Prepare a solid rationale Present and pass the policy Ensure high-compliance

Thank you! Jill Hutson Rede Group 503 -764 -9696 jill. hutson@redegroup. co