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Advocacy
Have you ever considered attending Legislative Day? This is your chance each year to visit Richmond and talk with your representatives and delegates regarding issues before the General Assembly which effect schools and counselors. Educate yourself - and start thinking now about what you want to convey in speaking with these decision-makers!
Legislative Day 2012 is January 30, 2012!
Report from last year's Legislative Day by our President-Elect, Margaret Baker.
VCA Day on the Hill
January 24, 2011
VCA members assembled at UR Downtown. After a continental breakfast, we received an introduction of the VCA presidents (past, current, and elect). Information packets for effective lobbying were distributed and some of the legislation talking points were highlighted for us. Of particular note for school counselors:
HB 1416- This bill narrowly passed (48-46) in the House and was sent on to the Senate. The bill instructs school boards to spend 65% of their annual budget on direct classroom instruction. Direct instruction does not include: school counselors, school psychologists, librarians, custodians, nurses, bus drivers, school and district administrators, teacher training, curriculum instruction and development, transportation, or food services.
HB 1792 and SB 1270: Standards of Quality, Standard 2- Every two years the Board of Education sets standards on staffing requirements. HB1792 and SB1270 would codify within the SOQ flexibility to use funds provided in the appropriations act and to local school divisions for these personnel staffing standards. Included in this year’s bills are standards for:
• Data coordinator and instruction technology resource teacher or a blended position. The data coordinator position will serve as a resource to principals and classroom teachers for data analysis and interpretation to improve instruction and student outcomes
• Inclusion of support services positions in Standard 2 of the SOQs that include:
• Guidance administrative positions
• Health and behavioral positions including nurses, school psychologists, and social works
• Superintendents and assistant superintendents
• Library and media personnel
• Positions for pupil transportation and security
• Clerical positions
Packets for each legislator had been prepared so the important information could be left with them or their legislative aide for further review. VCA members then walked the few blocks over to the capitol.
Notes: This was also VEA Lobby Day so it was very crowded in the halls and competitive to be able to speak with the delegates, senators, or their legislative assistants. School counselors were the predominate participating VCA members. It was an informative experience.
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