Parent Advocacy Institute

The Parent Advocacy Institute

The Parent Advocacy Institute is a paid, 16-week leadership development program designed to equip parents and caregivers with the skills and knowledge needed to advocate effectively for their children’s education. This immersive program provides participants with in-depth training on advocacy strategies, insights into local and state-level policy, and opportunities to collaborate on real-world advocacy initiatives. By sharing personal experiences and actively engaging in the policymaking process, our parent advocates will gain the tools and confidence to drive positive change for students and communities.

Program Information

Benefits of Joining the Program

Get Paid to learn

Parent advocates will receive compensation for their time, while learning valuable skills that will last a lifetime.

Gain Confidence in Advocacy

The institute provides a supportive environment where parents can develop confidence in their ability to speak up and advocate for educational changes.

Practical Skills Development

Participants learn practical skills such as public speaking, community organizing, and policy advocacy- valuable tools they can use long after the program ends.

A Supportive Network

Parents connect with other parents who share their commitment to educational equity, forming a network of support and encouragement that extends beyond the 16-week program.

Make a Tangible Impact

Graduates of the institute are empowered to drive meaningful change, equipped to advocate effectively within their communities, and prepared to champion equitable opportunities for all students.

Join the Parent Advocacy Institute

Join The Parent Advocacy Institute

Name

Phone

Address

Zip Code

Race/Ethnicity

Do you have children currently enrolled in a Houston ISD school? If yes, which school(s) and grades?

Do you have 5 - 10 hrs a week to commit to the program?

Parent Advocates meet once a week for 1.5 hours, attend monthly HISD meetings, are assigned weekly projects to complete, and will be expected to attend community events. Do you agree to this time commitment?

Can you attend an in person orientation on February 2, 2025?

After receiving training and support, will you commit to: speaking with leaders in public education (i.e. school board members, school administrators, legislators) talking to the media on topics related to public education speaking publicly at school board meetings and other public forums on public education; and writing about your experience with issues in public education?

The Parent Advocacy Institute’s XXXXX include virtual meetings. Access to a stable internet connection and laptop/tablet is required. Do you have access to a stable internet connection and laptop or tablet?

Why are you interested in joining the Parent Advocacy Institute and what do you hope to gain from this experience?

Are there challenges you see in your child’s education, school, or community? If yes, what are they and how have you tried to address them so far?

Are there specific issues or policies in education that you are passionate about changing or addressing? If so, please elaborate.

This is a 16-week program with active participation required. How will you balance your current responsibilities with this time commitment?

Describe a time when you worked with others to solve a problem or accomplish a goal. What role did you play, and what was the outcome?

Can you share an experience where you worked with someone whose views or approach differed from your own? How did you navigate the situation and find common ground?

Are you involved in any organizations? What are they and do you hold a leadership position?

Have you ever organized a group of individuals for the purpose of addressing an issue in your community? If yes, please elaborate.

How has your personal or cultural background influenced your perspective on education and advocacy?

Is there anything else you would like us to know about you or your interest in this program?

Join the Movement for Better Public Education!

Connect with our team today to learn how you can contribute to this important mission and make a lasting impact on the future of education in Houston!