President's Perspective

THE IMPORTANCE OF ADVOCACY AND NETWORKING FOR EDUCATIONAL LEADERS

Brian Kirkendoll, AAEA Board President

I was fortunate enough to have attended the Superintendent Symposium in January. Each time I go to a conference or professional meeting, I find something beneficial to take away. Being present, putting names with faces, and making connections always proves to be invaluable. In fact, the people is what make AAEA and its constituent groups special. The relationships and opportunities for growth are available if you choose to explore them. There are several constituent group conferences taking place in February and this spring, I hope you take the time to attend one of these so you do not miss out on an opportunity that may be awaiting you.

In addition to state level networking, these conferences often can open up avenues of conversation with lawmakers. As the state coordinator for AASSP, I, along with Dr. Karla Tarkington, will be attending our national advocacy days in Washington D.C. during the last week of March. A group of elementary principals representing the AAESP board of directors will also be attending. Please feel free to reach out to me if you would like to bring anything regarding education to the attention of our representatives or senators. They are usually quite attentive and interested in what we have to say and will welcome your input. Thank you again for leading and impacting Arkansas education.