Observing and Interacting with Program Directors

• How will you address advocacy issues with professionals in your setting?  I have talked to two professionals that are working in the school system where I am doing my internship.  One of those people is the supervisor to five other people.  Her program has many systems in place to identify and support families who need support.  She had just returned from meeting with a family who has a child who was suspended from using the bus.  The family has a car but no gas money to transport the child to school.  The person obtained permission to purchase a gas card with the understanding that the child was to make it to school every day that week.  The reason the supervisor knew about the issue was communication and knowledge among those who work with the family.  They keep each other informed and have the attitude that they will all do what they can to support the child and family.  The other professional I met with has the opportunity to work one-on-one with children who are reading below grade level.  She spends a half hour with each student and is currently serving 15 students.  She feels she provides a valuable service to the students but was recently notified that the school was discussing cutting her program because nobody knew what she was actually doing with the students.  This proves how important it is for others to know what you are doing and having a team mentality that will provide a stronger basis for advocacy.
• How might you find out more about or possibly become in involved with current advocacy programs in your setting?  Everybody feels they have more to do than they can possibly handle.  If I walked into the principals office and asked what I could do to help others with advocacy, I would have more offers than I could choose from.  I have also met with many professionals and know what they are working on.  I could offer my services to them and the help would be appreciated.  It could be as simple as calling parents to invite them to the student of the month award that is coming up.  My mentor is also a good resources because she is very involved in advocacy.
• What kind of difference would you like to make in your setting, your community, or your field?  I am researching breaking the cycle of poverty.  Being part of the community makes me vested in the best interests of the community.  Years from now I am going to want to see that these children have become adults who are also vested in the community and strive to make it a good place to live and work.  I want to know that their children will be raised with more opportunities and a promising future.