Start a local team

Define your local team’s focus, whether it’s equitable funding, school board elections, or public education appreciation.

• Create a mission statement and goals. This will guide the development of your group.

• Be positive, be polite, and be professional.

• Relationships are the building blocks of a successful team.

Recruit parents, teachers, students, and community members who share your vision.

• Have sign-up sheets at all events.

• Create a membership form.

• Keep a database of members with email addresses.

Establish a recognizable identity for your team with a name, logo, and branding materials.

• Give your group a name.

• Create a logo.

• Share your group's name and imagery on social media and through brochures, banner, t-shirts, address labels, stickers, buttons, yard signs, etc.

Plan fundraising efforts or donation strategies to support your advocacy work.

• Consider collecting dues and conducting fundraisers.

• Establish a bank account, and consider if you will pursue tax exempt status.

• Track income and expenses.

Host events, organize meetings, and spread the word through social media.

• Co-host events with other groups in your community.

• Create social media accounts, a website, and/or a group email.

• Attend legislative public hearings and meetings.