# data[].attributes.body
To me advocacy is multidimensional, it encompasses what we say and more importantly, what we do for a particular group of people(students) or organization.

It may be starting a new program or initiative, or it may be collaborating with stakeholders to get your school/district what they need. Depending on your role or specific circumstances, the answer to this question will vary. I look forward to reading what others have to say about this question.

# data[].attributes.body
One of the easiest ways to advocate is by delivering and teaching a high quality standards based program where students have different entry points and can be successful. The students who "dislike" moving to the students who cant wait for your class, they all need to find success each class, each day. Once students are learning and see the value of what you are teaching, they can also be "ambassadors" by telling others, e.g friends, caregivers, other staff. Its vital to share all of the good things that are happening.

One of the students favorite units is when they get to create their own game. There are guidelines and a rubric that must be followed, however students still get to create, collaborate and teach their game to their peers. This is an experience that is empowering for them and also teaches them leadership skills.

# data[].attributes.body
One of the biggest barriers is time. Many schools, staff are bombarded each year with new initiatives, goals, and programs. Furthermore, there are some folks who believe that advocacy is "somebody" else's job. This is a barrier, as I believe each teacher/staff in the building has an important role to play when it comes to advocacy. All teachers should be members of their states HPE organizations.

There is a lot of work that people accomplish behind the scenes that allow for effective PD and conferences as well as other events. If you find any barriers in your work. A helpful set of questions to consider are, where am I now? where do I want to be? How will I get there? Once this is determined, an action plan can be developed.

# data[].attributes.body
Early on in my career, I collaborated with a 5th grade colleague and started a martial arts program for students in the school that were deemed "at risk" and had been through significant trauma. The program took place 2x a week for 6 weeks. We taught the students in the program SEL skills such as stress management, self control skills, and self awareness. The students completed the program successfully showing improvement and confidence in themselves. The program gave students a place where they belonged and felt included.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Quality Health and Physical Education - The Heart and Soul of Our Schools!

# data[].attributes.headline
To me advocacy is any time you make a case for, or model, the value of something.

# data[].attributes.subject
To me advocacy is any time you make a case for, or model, the value of something.

# data[].attributes.body
#PhysEd/#HealthEd advocacy happens in the classroom w/Ss, w/colleagues, at a board meeting, on social media, w/parents, & at the state & nat’l level. All levels equally important. Becky Foellmer, IL @foes4sports

# data[].attributes.body
My advocacy efforts, because I am retired, most frequently occur on social media. Every time we post, positive or negative, we are representing Health and Physical Education. It's important that we remember that folks are paying attention to what we say and that includes parents and administrators. I have been lucky enough to be able to attend a number of SPEAKout Days as well as several of our own advocacy days in the state of Illinois and those events are very empowering. When you have the opportunity to speak with elected officials (and feel heard!) and show them your passion, it does have an impact, both on you, as a professional, and on them! Becky Foellmer

# data[].attributes.body
Although I understand feeling that there are barriers, the most important thing to remember is that Advocacy begins in your own gym or classroom. The most critical way to advocate is by providing your students with Quality PE and/or skills-based Health. THEY will be the future decision-makers and, truly, our biggest hurdle at present is erasing the memory of so many folks who have very negative PE experiences. At minimum, we need this generation of students to go out into the world with an attitude that embraces movement as a critical, positive and important part of their lives. Obviously, roll-out-the-ball PE does nothing to help students see the value of activity to their physical and mental well being lifelong. Becky Foellmer

# data[].attributes.body
Our website (cbhpe.org) has been a labor of love in an effort to attempt to provide ALL HPE teachers with free access to resources that can help students learn in HPE. The fact that so many folks have been SO generous and willing to share is a testament to how many people believe in and are working towards the day when ALL students are afforded Quality PE opportunities, along with Quality skills-based Health. For me, this is my basic Advocacy effort. Sharing via social media, taking on state, district and national leadership roles are also work I'm proud of. Becky Foellmer

# data[].attributes.headline
Northeastern District of IAHPERD Advocacy Resources page

# data[].attributes.subject
Northeastern District of IAHPERD Advocacy Resources page

# data[].attributes.body
This page has a large number of resources that can be used for a variety of advocacy efforts. Includes articles, posters, videos, etc. Becky Foellmer

# data[].attributes.headline
To me, advocacy in health and physical education brings professionalism, legitimacy, and attention towards quality health and physical education to groups and individuals who might not see or hear you yet.

# data[].attributes.subject
To me, advocacy in health and physical education brings professionalism, legitimacy, and attention towards quality health and physical education to groups and individuals who might not see or hear you yet.

# data[].attributes.body
These groups and individuals could include students, faculty, administrators, parents, community members, or anyone else who can help bring value to our advocacy efforts. ~Rob Tatro, Needham Public Schools

# data[].attributes.headline
I start with our students and let their experiences and contributions to our classes speak for themselves.

# data[].attributes.subject
I start with our students and let their experiences and contributions to our classes speak for themselves.

# data[].attributes.body
Communicating with parents, administrators, and community members in a variety of ways help bring attention to student experiences via a strong website, email blasts, community events, and in some cases social media are excellent avenues for advocacy. ~Rob Tatro, Needham Public Schools

# data[].attributes.headline
The physical structure of the current educational environment in public schools makes doing anything else outside of teaching classes themselves difficult.

# data[].attributes.subject
The physical structure of the current educational environment in public schools makes doing anything else outside of teaching classes themselves difficult.

# data[].attributes.body
The constraints put on public schools and their dwindling resources make advocating for our programs difficult. Increasing demands and responsibilities inside and outside of the classroom and gymnasium are very difficult. These include, and are not limited to, teaching more classes, less planning time, working with schedules that are not conducive to planning and preparation, increasing amounts of email, more IEP's and 504's to monitor, added duties inside of the school building, and increasing initiatives and programs. Building advocacy efforts through your students and teaching is a way to help continue advocacy efforts despite these current trends. ~Rob Tatro, Needham Public Schools

# data[].attributes.headline
Being part of the creation of a system-wide, quality physical education curriculum and program has been fulfilling and rewarding.

# data[].attributes.subject
Being part of the creation of a system-wide, quality physical education curriculum and program has been fulfilling and rewarding.

# data[].attributes.body
Over the course of 20+ years in education, I've been fortunate enough to be part of the creation of our success. Being involved in the hiring process for the educators we brought to our department, being involved in the committees and groups who organized and planned our health and physical education curriculum, being involved in the creation of community events which highlight the work that we do in our schools every day, and then bringing attention to the creation of this programming to students, parents, administrators, and community members has been a lifetime of advocacy and work that I am extremely proud of. ~Rob Tatro, Needham Public Schools

# data[].attributes.headline
Introduction to Physical and Health Literacy

# data[].attributes.subject
Introduction to Physical and Health Literacy

# data[].attributes.body
I have this video front and center on my school website and encourage anyone who visits to watch it if they want to begin to understand why what we do is so important for our students and for our community. ~Rob Tatro, Needham Public Schools

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
HANDS UP | 1 - Introduction to Physical & Health Literacy

# data[].attributes.body
To educate others about the work you do and it’s impact in order to leverage support for a cause or ask.

# data[].attributes.body
Advocacy addresses how you promote, support, and educate others about something that you believe in and is important to you.

B. McNally, Massachusetts

# data[].attributes.body
Whenever the opportunity would present itself to talk about, or show someone, the wonderful ways that health and physical education teachers are making an impact on their students' lives by what they are teaching and the experiences they are providing for their students we must jump at that chance. Sometimes these opportunities are planned, such as a presentation to the school committee, parents school advisory council, or faculty meeting. Sometimes they are unplanned, such as in conversations with parents, colleagues, or school constituents. I have always embraced any opportunity to make a public presentation about our program at a school committee meeting. We also brought students to the state house to speak at legislative sessions in support of health and physical education programming, where we were also able to testify, or advocate, for the importance of our program and curriculum. When I was first hired as the program coordinator I made a point to meet 1:1 with each school principal to discuss the health and physical education curriculum and program. As a follow-up to this meeting I asked for and was given the opportunity to speak at each school's PAC/PTO meeting to meet parents and educate/advocate for our program.

B. McNally, Massachusetts

# data[].attributes.body
There are so many different ways to advocate for your program that "if one door closes another one opens." Your own creativity can open those doors for advocacy. You must be ready and willing to find ways to open those doors to share your message about the importance of your health and physical education programs. B. McNally, Massachusetts

# data[].attributes.body
I'm proud and thankful for every advocacy effort we have made as a staff. I especially enjoyed the opportunity each year to speak to the parents of incoming 9th graders about our high school health and physical education programs. I embraced the opportunity to speak to community service clubs and share information with our local newspaper so they could print stories about our program. I'm thankful for the time I contacted our state representative and invited her to meet with me at my office, which she did, and I was provided the opportunity to speak about our program and its' successes and challenges. I was also able to bring her to classes so she could observe our teachers and students in action. A number of years ago we were faced with significant budget and programming cuts. We came together as a K-12 staff to develop and deliver an advocacy effort to fully inform parents and the community of how these cuts would affect their children. It was a true group effort. One of the cuts was the elimination of the requirement for high school seniors to take and pass a PE course. Among the highlights of this effort was that high school students made their voices heard and, when asked by administration what cut to the high school would they want immediately reinstated they voted for their senior PE course. As a result that "cut" was rescinded. I attribute this to the high school PE teachers and the outstanding experience they provided for their students during their first three years of high school and they didn't want to miss it during their senior year. B. McNally, Massachusetts

# data[].attributes.body
One other advocacy tool was a department newsletter that we created 3 or 4 times during each school year. Each newsletter issue highlighted information, stories and photos about what was happening in health and physical education at each school. We were able to distribute it electronically to every school family, preK-12 in the district. B. McNally, Massachusetts

# data[].attributes.body
Advocacy is being able to identify what you need, letting your needs known, and getting the help you need.

# data[].attributes.body
I would describe advocacy as strongly promoting a cause or an idea that will make a difference, usually for the greater good, whether it is for self or others.

# data[].attributes.headline
One way that I advocate for my students program is by stating the benefits of the program and how the program will improve students health and wellbeing.  I also give a proposal.

# data[].attributes.subject
One way that I advocate for my students program is by stating the benefits of the program and how the program will improve students health and wellbeing.  I also give a proposal.

# data[].attributes.headline
Some barriers that get in the way are as follows:

# data[].attributes.subject
Some barriers that get in the way are as follows:

# data[].attributes.body
a. Funds

b. Racism

c. Favoritism

d. Space

How I overcome these barriers ? I am still working on that.

# data[].attributes.body
Advocating is about educating others about the knowledge you have in a specific area, equipping them to possibly do the same.

And a true advocate also practices what they preach.

# data[].attributes.body
I advocate for this community and this type of program by making things simple for others to understand and implement. As well as share the research and knowledge with their peers and superiors

# data[].attributes.body
barriers to helping this community and mission are:

1. The government lack of oversight I. iDEA law and its mandate for PE for student with disabilities. They do not hold districts accountable

2. Higher education not preparing students to work with those with disabilities

3. administrators who don’t value physical education for those with disabilities (and often neurotypical students)

4. Lack of funding by districts and/or administrators to support the teachers and students

5. PE teachers who are set in their ways and don’t want to change. Time for them to leave the system

# data[].attributes.body
Infecting another person with your passion so that real change happens

# data[].attributes.body
It is also advocating when you "stand up" for things or situation's that are unfair. If you address whatever the issue is directly but respectfully, this can be an effective strategy for advocacy.

# data[].attributes.body
Here is an excellent resource about quality physical education.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Becoming a Distinguished Physical Education Teacher: Creating a Rigorous, Standards-Based PE Program That is Safe and Welcoming For All Students is now available for pre-order!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.provider_name
Health and Physical Education Collective

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Health and Physical Education Collective

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Our collective is designed to highlight high-quality content from our HPE content creators network. By becoming a member of The HPE Collective, you will enjoy an assortment of benefits, including a community with highly motivated HPE teachers from around the world, weekly content and resources published by an expert teacher from our content creator network, and annual professional learning summits that convene the best minds in Health and Physical Education. What are you waiting for? join us today to experience the transformative growth you’ve been looking for.

# data[].attributes.body
As a retiree, I am grateful to be able to go out and advocate for the profession and my professional organizations. Yesterday I had the opportunity to go back to my school district after 8 years and share at the Elementary HPE in-service about what is happening at SHAPE PA, the importance of belonging and what we are capable specifically doing for them. Sharing my experiences felt inspiring. Nice to talk with old colleagues, past student teachers, and friends. We also discussed the PA HPE Standards’ status and how they can contribute to the review process. Never too young or old to advocate for what you feel is right and important. Belonging to a professional family is essential on your journey.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Physical Education Advocacy Amplified: Elevating Your Voice

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Physical education – it’s more than just a class; it’s a pivotal element in the holistic development of our youth. In our fast-paced, tech-driven world, quality physical education serves as a vital platform for instilling the values of movement, social interaction, and active living. However, the path of physical education often encounters hurdles like budget constraints, limited curriculum space, and a general undervaluation of its importance. This is where the power of effective advocacy steps

# data[].attributes.body
I'm a new teacher, what is the easiest way to advocate?

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Click the links below to JUMP to a section:

2 - Knowledge Application in Movement : Beyond just moving, the second standard focused on applying knowledge of concepts, strategies, and tactics related to movement and performance. It encouraged students to think critically about how and why they move, fostering a deeper understanding of physical activity.

SHAPE America. (2013). National Standards for K-12 Physical Education. Reston, VA: Author.

For further details on the 2024 National Physical Education Standards, download the 2024 National Physical Education Standards Educator Kit located here on SHAPE America's website. This Educator Kit features the National Physical Education Standards, including their rationale, grade-span learning indicators, and much more. Discover the updates to the new standards and access a wealth of resources to share with administrators, colleagues, parents, and the broader community!

You can view the new standards and Grade-Span Learning Indicators here .

National Physical Education Standards are used under license from SHAPE America. © 2024, SHAPE America, https://www.shapeamerica.org/ . All rights reserved.

1.5.10 Demonstrates throwing in a variety of practice tasks .

The grade-span learning indicators represent a significant advancement in physical education, providing a structured yet flexible framework for developing skills and knowledge that are crucial for students' growth and well-being.

You can view the new standards and Grade-Span Learning Indicators here .

National Physical Education Standards are used under license from SHAPE America. © 2024, SHAPE America, https://www.shapeamerica.org/ . All rights reserved.

Resource Limitations : Schools and local school districts may face constraints in terms of facilities, equipment, and access to technology, making it challenging to fully implement the standards.

**National Physical Education Standards are used under license from SHAPE America. © 2024, SHAPE America, https://www.shapeamerica.org/ . All rights reserved.

Click the links below to JUMP to a section:

2 - Knowledge Application in Movement : Beyond just moving, the second standard focused on applying knowledge of concepts, strategies, and tactics related to movement and performance. It encouraged students to think critically about how and why they move, fostering a deeper understanding of physical activity.

SHAPE America. (2013). National Standards for K-12 Physical Education. Reston, VA: Author.

For further details on the 2024 National Physical Education Standards, download the 2024 National Physical Education Standards Educator Kit located here on SHAPE America's website. This Educator Kit features the National Physical Education Standards, including their rationale, grade-span learning indicators, and much more. Discover the updates to the new standards and access a wealth of resources to share with administrators, colleagues, parents, and the broader community!

You can view the new standards and Grade-Span Learning Indicators here .

National Physical Education Standards are used under license from SHAPE America. © 2024, SHAPE America, https://www.shapeamerica.org/ . All rights reserved.

1.5.10 Demonstrates throwing in a variety of practice tasks .

The grade-span learning indicators represent a significant advancement in physical education, providing a structured yet flexible framework for developing skills and knowledge that are crucial for students' growth and well-being.

You can view the new standards and Grade-Span Learning Indicators here .

National Physical Education Standards are used under license from SHAPE America. © 2024, SHAPE America, https://www.shapeamerica.org/ . All rights reserved.

Resource Limitations : Schools and local school districts may face constraints in terms of facilities, equipment, and access to technology, making it challenging to fully implement the standards.

**National Physical Education Standards are used under license from SHAPE America. © 2024, SHAPE America, https://www.shapeamerica.org/ . All rights reserved.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Understanding the New SHAPE America Physical Education Standards for 2024

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
I'm excited to share some important news that has recently come from SHAPE America that's set to make a significant impact on our work as physical education teachers. SHAPE America has been at the forefront of advocating for excellence in physical education, and their latest initiative continues this proud tradition.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.provider_name
PE Blog – Read & Discuss Current PE Topics

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Gopher Physical Education PE Blog - Read & Discuss Current PE Topics

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Respected collaborators share the latest physical education trends, activity ideas, pedagogy and more!

# data[].attributes.body
Educating the public about the importance of physical activity for overall health, including preventing chronic diseases like obesity and diabetes

# data[].attributes.body
Lobbying for legislation that mandates adequate health & physical education time in schools, supports funding for PE programs, and promotes healthy food options.

# data[].attributes.body
Collaborating with parents, community leaders, and healthcare providers to promote active lifestyles and support school health initiatives

# data[].attributes.body
Encouraging teachers to adopt evidence-based practices in their health & PE classes and advocating for ongoing professional development opportunities.

# data[].attributes.body
This is done through the annual state  convention as well as at the health educator conference.

Educators can also accomplish this by disseminating information to their local  community.

# data[].attributes.body
This is done on student speak out day in the spring as well as other times during the year.

Educators can also accomplish this by working with other stakeholders in the district and by contacting and meeting with decision makers

# data[].attributes.body
This can be done at the school level by sharing flyers and newsletters with tips and pertinent information.

MAHPERD has spoken to different community groups such as PTA and school administrators.

Teachers can join or start a wellness committee in their schools or implement the  Whole School, Whole Community, Whole Child (“wisk”) Mode

# data[].attributes.body
This is done through the variety of PD that is offered throughout the year. The goal is that best practices would be implemented in the teacher's classroom.

Educators can also look into presenting and sharing their own ideas during districtwide PD days. With the technology capabilities we  have, PD can essentially happen at “any time

# data[].attributes.headline
Now what, so what? What are some action steps you can take?

# data[].attributes.subject
Now what, so what? What are some action steps you can take?

# data[].attributes.body
Sharing information about the benefits of physical activity and health and promoting active living through social media platforms.

# data[].attributes.body
Presenting data on the positive impacts of health & physical education and advocating for increased PE time.

# data[].attributes.body
Collaborating with community groups like health departments, recreation centers, and youth organizations to promote physical activity initiatives

# data[].attributes.body
Sharing data on the positive impacts of physical activity on academic performance, mental health, and chronic disease prevention to decision-makers.

# data[].attributes.body
Gathering signatures and sending letters to policymakers to advocate for increased funding for health & physical education programs

# data[].attributes.body
Contacting elected officials to advocate for policies that support health & physical education in schools

# data[].attributes.body
Hosting events like Health fairs or "Take Your Parent to PE Day" to highlight the importance of physical education.

# data[].attributes.body
Highlighting positive outcomes from our Programs to share the value of quality health & PE

# data[].attributes.body
To me, advocacy is the ability to speak up for oneself and others when there is a recognized need to continue the enhancement of our communal health and well-being.

# data[].attributes.body
I am continuously advocating for all things health education and health and well-being for our students. Through day to day conversations, when my role and profession come up in conversations, I am continuously educating others on how amazing health education is alongside what it is and what it is not. Even more importantly I focus on the importance of student skill development and how this impacts everyone's daily lives.

# data[].attributes.body
Money & Other District Priorities - when there is a perceived need that is greater and it limits the capabilities we have to expand and enhance programming that in turns supports our advocacy and education efforts of our professional.

Preconceived notions and societal stigmas - A barrier but one that I find just takes some time to breakdown through education and focusing on skill development rather than some of the content that individuals hyper fixate on and think that is all health education is.

# data[].attributes.body
When I was a teacher at my middle school, I was able to utilize the National Standards to not only educate our administration but also clearly define the importance of not only PE but also Health ed. and with clearly defining the skill development differences, was able to get my administration to add an additional health educator at our school. Which then our two other middle schools followed suit in.

# data[].attributes.body
I define advocacy as being able to speak up for yourself and asking for help when needed. In terms of students, I feel advocacy is when a student knows they need help, guidance, or assistance, and asks for help when needed

# data[].attributes.body
To me advocacy is standing up for yourself or others.

# data[].attributes.body
A big part of advocacy for me is identifying everyone's needs, where those needs are not met, why they aren't met, and how to work to change the situation.

# data[].attributes.headline
Advocacy is using your voice and actions to represent something that needs uplifting. Often advocacy is possible because of a place or position of privilege you hold.

# data[].attributes.subject
Advocacy is using your voice and actions to represent something that needs uplifting. Often advocacy is possible because of a place or position of privilege you hold.

# data[].attributes.body
I advocate for my students by offering opportunities to form relationships with them and providing safe spaces for them (lunch groups, staying after school, hosting a club)

# data[].attributes.body
Advocacy is public support or recommendation for a particular topic, ideology, or situation

# data[].attributes.body
I advocate for my students, by allowing them to write about experiences that are important and relevant to them. Students have been more eager to open up about personal issues, when I model the lessons, by letting them know personal writing is some of the hardest writing to do, but is usually the best writing produced, since they care about the topics they are writing about, as well as the awareness they can spread through stories and anecdotes that are relatable to their reader

# data[].attributes.body
When my students filled out a survey asking who their safe adult is at school, a lot of students listed me and to me I felt like this was the efforts and result of my advocacy.

# data[].attributes.body
Advocacy is sharing with parents, families, the community, and stakeholders what goes on in your classroom and its importance. Advocacy is especially important in so-called "non-academic" classes. As we know, some of the most important learning and doing in school happens in our spaces. Sometimes, we need to effectively demonstrate that to people outside the school building.

# data[].attributes.body
Advocacy (to me) is knowing that you have a problem that needs to be solved (either for yourself or a student) and asking the right questions, to the right people, enough times and with enough passion to help get that problem solved.

# data[].attributes.body
Advocating for students and/or a program can simply be demonstrating examples of success and achievements of our students, leading the way for the building of a program.

# data[].attributes.body
Advocacy is supporting a cause or issue through education of the general public and leaders and political pressure on local, state and federal governments

# data[].attributes.body
Advocacy means to speak or take action steps to create positive social change. In the education realm, the social change is improving student success and the environment to do so.

# data[].attributes.body
To start with, I expect students to rise to the challenges I place for them. These challenges are rigorous, but appropriate to their level and ability. Holding the highest standards possible forces students to see what they are capable of, and provides a backbone for me to lean on when I need to prove what my program can do. I also insist on being a squeaky wheel; not to the point of annoyance or belligerence, but not allowing matters that are important to my program to fade into background noise, and following up consistently and politely to make sure that the needs of my program do not get lost in the depths of an inbox. I try to find the balance between understanding I am not the only voice that needs hearing, and maintaining a firm line of expectation that I be heard.

# data[].attributes.body
I teach an elective class, so I have to advocate a lot to make sure that my students are getting access to resources/materials they need. I also do my best to show students who may not feel confident about school that there are people who support them and that they are capable of doing amazing things.

# data[].attributes.body
A few barriers that come to mind when thinking about advocacy efforts are the new curriculums and initiatives that are set forth by the district and sometimes school admins each year. These initiatives can sometimes take away from having more opportunities to allow students to advocate, however this is still something I am working on.

# data[].attributes.body
As an elective teacher, a lot of the issues I face when advocating is sometimes other adults in my building not treating my class like a real class or not treating me as an equal to core content classes which makes voicing my opinion sometimes a struggle.

# data[].attributes.body
As a teacher, I appreciate the process of teaching and learning far more than any product. However, the community typically loves a product. In the arts, we have the opportunity to share what happens in our classrooms with experiences like art shows, concerts, recitals, and more. I personally like to sneak some process into the product as well, to show the community and students' families the importance of a growth mindset.

# data[].attributes.body
I consistently go to my administrators and counselors when I know there is an issue that as student is facing. I work hard to help get that students ( or colleague) set up with the appropriate group or support person to help remedy the situation.

Working together, we can support our school community.

# data[].attributes.body
Advocating for students begins with open communication in the form of formal feedback with surveys and informal with student response to curriculum.

# data[].attributes.body
Advocacy is standing up for, and making your voice heard about a cause you care about. It includes educating others about your views / the topic / the students.

# data[].attributes.body
I give students a voice and an avenue to express themselves through musical performances. Sometimes simply "doing" is a strong form of advocacy. I also advocate on their behalf meetings etc.

# data[].attributes.body
Part of the issue with advocacy is knowing who to go to and when as issues need to move up a ladder. As a new staff member, I have to navigate the line between being insistent and being annoying, while also being understanding of processes that are in place already, and why. People live busy lives, and what is essential to me may be fifth violin to the issues people higher up the ladder are dealing with.

# data[].attributes.body
One of the biggest barriers I have is lack of resources and support. I think elective classes are not taken seriously by many members of the educational community, and I have to more than most to show that the work students do in my class is valuable.

# data[].attributes.body
I am most proud of the personal narrative prompts and memoir writing that I promote amongst my students. I am also passionate about this type of writing, which I feel my students can sense. This year, specifically, I have read some of my own work to students, as models and examples of what their writing can look like, and usually students have praised my story. This opens the floor for them to ask questions about my past experiences, but more importantly gives them a basis to reflect on theirs. This has led to many open conversations with students regarding mental health awareness and the discussions have proved to be helpful and thoughtful

# data[].attributes.body
In some school districts, there are too many arts showcase events. Art shows, concerts, recitals, seasonal showcases, musicals, plays. These events pile up and all class time is spent preparing for them. This equates to the arts' own version of "teaching to the test," especially if admin and the community have certain specific expectations around programming. This ends up getting in the way of the actual education at times.

# data[].attributes.body
Advocacy in PE means promoting and encouraging all students, faculty, and community members to engage in life time fitness and healthy choices. It also means identifying and promoting how health and fitness are critical to a well rounded education.

# data[].attributes.body
What have you found to be the best ways to advocate for your students in your classroom?

# data[].attributes.body
Advocacy is the practice of being able to not only stand up and speak up for yourself, but to be comfortable doing it in any situation.

# data[].attributes.body
New Initiatives, crush of expectations from central office, new grading system, TIME and personal connections are all valid barriers, but nothing should stand in the way of you advocating for your students or a peer. It is the life blood of our job and the reason most of us became teachers. We should always feel empowered to speak up for the people that need help regardless of the barriers in the way.

# data[].attributes.body
The biggest barriers I encounter are other groups or needs taking precedent over issues for which I am advocating. I also believe people not being able to taken in the "larger picture" (miss information or apathy) can lead groups to create different priorities.

# data[].attributes.body
Years ago, I transitioned my end-of-year concert from a performance to an "informance." An informational performance. We treated it as a window into our classroom. Rather than simply performing songs, we showed our warm-up routines. We demonstrated the games we play in class. We showed that there is more going on behind the scenes that is rarely put on display. The community enjoyed the fresh spin on an old tradition, and it remained that way for some years.

# data[].attributes.body
By constantly reminding administrators, community members, and students how important health and physical education are to all students educational experience.

# data[].attributes.body
This year, I came in as a new teacher and advocated for my program by immediately placing goals that I wanted to achieve and finding resources to accomplish them. By naming the things I wanted around more experienced people (taking students on a field trip, getting more funding towards our production), veteran staff was able to hear me, and guide me towards grant avenues. From there, I worked on my own to complete applications, and succeeded in being awarded significant grant money that made my dreams reality. If I had not simply used my voice to name these things, others who could help guide me would never have been able to hear me.

# data[].attributes.body
I am most proud of times when I create an environment that enables students advocate for themselves.

# data[].attributes.body
How do we offer services that will draw families in to engage in meaningful conversation on topics that relevantly affect their children? Culturally, how do we make this important and relevant to families?

# data[].attributes.body
An advocacy effort I was proud of was the student showcase and preparing for it. A good amount of students advocated for themselves to display their writing assignments. A handful of these students said that they never got a high grade on a writing assignment before. I was so proud of them.

# data[].attributes.body
Professional development is an important part of growing as a professional. However, if we just offer PD and have no follow up to what we try to implement, it is like shouting into the wind. No real permanent effect. I wish this would change in education. We need follow up conversations to ensure that our hard work is going in the right direction and supports all learners.