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 legislatorsHow staffers can be influential allies in advocacy effortsUnderstanding Maryland's House Bill 0930 and the federal tax credit scholarship programEffective strategies for meeting with delegates and senatorsSpotlight on Nicole Derich, Head of Ridge Academy, and her role in Christian educationTimestamps: 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 visits15:55 - 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 leadershipResources & Links:Federal Tax Credit Scholarship Program - Learn moreMaryland House Bill 0930 - Full textmacsms.orgConnect with Nicole Derich:Ridge Academy - WebsiteNote: Be sure to prepare concise, impactful materials for meetings, and always thank legislators and their staff for their time and service.Follow Us:YouTube: Christian Principals PodcastInstagram: @cprincipalspodEmail: [email protected]: www.christianprincipalspodcast.comX: @CPrincipalsPodLinkedIn: Christian Principals PodcastExplore the Herzog Foundation's offerings for Christian schools at 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!

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