FCSD #1 Trustees have often expressed a dislike for email communication. However, email is often the best first step. Please ask each trustee how they prefer to communicate with stakeholders and also how that communication will be collected and shared with the rest of the trustees. This is where an introductory email has value - it can be sent to every trustee and then ensuing conversation can follow as the trustee prefers.
FCSD #1 Trustee Emails
Aileen Brew - abrew@landerschools.org
Karen Harms - kharms@landerschools.org
Dr. Kathy Hitt - KHitt@landerschools.org
Taylor Jacobs - tjacobs@landerschools.org
Scott Jensen - SJensen@landerschools.org
Jared Kail - JKail@landerschools.org
Mike McConnell - mmcconnell@landerschools.org
Tips for Presenting/Testifying at a School Board Meeting
(taken and adapted from ACLU - WA)
Preparation
Observe a board meeting to learn how the meeting is structured.
Research your board – try an internet search for information and media related to each board member so you know your audience.
It's not typical for the Board to ask or answer questions during an Open Forum. Be prepared to give your remarks without comment from the Board.
Research district goals and/or board goals so you can connect them with your remarks.
Research the district policy on your topic.
Provide each board member with a one-page fact sheet that highlights the main data or arguments.
While facts and statistics are helpful, it can be equally persuasive if you are able to share a story that shows these numbers have a human face.
Find out what the process is for speaking during Open Forum – this can usually be found out by calling the main district office or looking on the Board’s website.
Find out how long you will have to speak – it can be anywhere from 1-3 minutes. Prepare your remarks to fit within this timeframe – there is nothing worse than getting cut off in the middle.
Practice your remarks out loud multiple times with a timer to ensure that you stay within your timeline.
Write down your remarks to ensure a polished presentation (see writing tips below).
Be confident - this is your school district and you have every right to be heard.
Writing Tips for Your Remarks
Introduce yourself and your school affiliation (they will need this info for the minutes)
Address the board chair with your comments (ie. "Thank you Mr. Chair for allowing me to speak today...)
Open with your key point – i.e. “I am here today to ask you to end the policy of XYZ” or “I’ve come to talk to you about XYZ”
Prepare your remarks to fit within the time frame allotted for speakers.
Write the way you imagine yourself speaking.
Use powerful and clear language.
If possible, connect your reasons for making this change to board and district goals as well as their equity policy.
End your remarks by clearly stating the action you want the school board take – i.e. “I want to conclude by urging the board to change their policy and do XYZ”
Thank the Board again when done.