Notes

Outline

Self-Advocacy at the State Level

"The California Legislature is the..." The California Legislature is the policymaking body of state government, restricted only by the federal and state constitutions and the governor's veto power. The Legislature also conducts investigations into almost any issue of public concern.

Budget Cuts to Education K-12 – elementary, middle, high school CCC – (2) years, composed of 108 colleges statewide organized into 72 districts, serves more than 2.9 million students and represents the largest system of higher education in the world. (A.A) college prep, transfer Calif. State Universities – (4) 25 campuses Universities of California -  (4) 9 campuses B.A., credentials, Doctoral level studies

Largest System of Education in the World

CSU and UC Campuses

Why Should Anyone Listen You are a citizen You vote You experience legislative decisions Your taxes provide a base of funding where your tax dollars are spent on many things Decisions can affect your future

Do You Know How to Advocate for Yourself When? What was the issue? Did you have to argue your point? Did it take time? Did you have to rethink your position? What was the outcome?

Communicating With the Decision-Makers Letters FAX E-mail Telephone call Personal visits http://www.leginfo.ca.gov

Writing to the Legislature DO’s Address the member correctly Write legibly Include your name, address, telephone number and date on letterhead Mention your specific concerns Be accurate and concise Be courteous Send letters in a timely manner Ask for a reply, add your address to the letter

Writing to the Legislature Don’t Be long-winded Adopt a righteous tone Demand anything Be rude or threatening Write only to the opposing legislators Assume legislators know the complete story

Are There Others Advocating Legislators The CCC system College Presidents Faculty/Staff Meeting with local constituents Students Van to the Capitol March on March 17th Rally

Let Your Voice Be Heard Assignment Letter G:/self-advocacy folder Write your concerns How will the cuts affect you How will cuts affect services provided to students with disabilities How will it affect your goals and future

Results of Your Letters

Results of Your Letters