Join MarkZockoll and Matthew George as they share a behind-the-scenes look at their advocacy day in Annapolis, Maryland, highlighting how private school leaders can engage with policymakers, the importance of face-to-face meetings, and the nuances of state legislation affecting Christian education. This episode is packed with practical insights for administrators, advocates, and anyone interested in shaping educational policy.
Key topics:
- The significance of visiting your state capital and engaging with legislators
- How staffers can be influential allies in advocacy efforts
- Understanding Maryland’s House Bill 0930 and the federal tax credit scholarship program
- Effective strategies for meeting with delegates and senators
- Spotlight on Nicole Derich, Head of Ridge Academy, and her role in Christian education
Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction to our Annapolis advocacy experience
00:40 – Security and proximity to Hakeem Jeffries in the Maryland State House
01:12 – Reflection on podcast activity and audience engagement
02:11 – Overview of the federal tax credit scholarship program and House Bill 0930
03:08 – How states recognize and implement the scholarship program
03:57 – The purpose and activities of Maryland Christian schools in advocacy
04:20 – Specifics of House Bill 0930 and its implications
05:32 – Encouragement for school administrators to visit their state capitol
06:07 – The power of state advocacy versus federal efforts
07:11 – Building relationships with legislators and their staff
07:41 – The value of bringing students on advocacy trips
08:29 – Personal interactions with delegates and senators
09:02 – Tips for engaging with legislative staffers
10:03 – The importance of face-to-face meetings and building rapport
11:03 – Meeting with specific delegates and how to approach these conversations
12:14 – Thanking and affirming supporters and voting record highlights
13:19 – The influence of legislation signatures and co-sponsorships
14:11 – Notable moments with delegates and office visits
15:55 – Reflecting on how advocacy can influence legislation
17:06 – Recognizing offensive or ill-advised bills and rallying opposition
18:19 – Maryland legislative process and bill subject requirements
19:48 – The significance of being informed and prepared for advocacy
20:20 – Strategies for effective engagement with legislators and staff
21:24 – Advocating for both private and public education simultaneously
22:31 – The importance of returning taxpayer dollars to local states
23:41 – Understanding bill sponsorship and community support
24:29 – Navigating legislative visitor access and establishing rapport
26:36 – Encounter with Delegate Schmidt and making concise requests
27:36 – Lessons from advocating with legislators not initially on our list
28:14 – Celebrating positive interactions and expressing gratitude
29:39 – Opportunities gathered throughout the day and God’s providence
31:01 – Encouragement to visit local offices and cultivate relationships
32:06 – Spotlighting Nicole Derich of Ridge Academy and her leadership
Resources & Links:
Connect with Nicole Derich:
Note: Be sure to prepare concise, impactful materials for meetings, and always thank legislators and their staff for their time and service.
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Explore the Herzog Foundation’s offerings for Christian schools at http://www.herzogfoundation.com. Book us for your next event to bring engaging and practical conversations to your community! And be sure to level up your school experience with our partner, Gradelink Student Information Systems, at cpp.gradelink.com today!