This month, IUSD students from Creekside, Irvine, Northwood, Portola, University and Woodbridge high schools participated virtually in the annual Student Advocacy program to discuss issues impacting education with state legislators and other influential policy makers in Sacramento. IUSD Board Member Lauren Brooks and Superintendent Terry Walker joined a handful of teachers, and PTA representatives during the virtual sessions, held over two days.
On day one, students met with Erika Hoffman, who is a Legislative Advocate for the California School Boards Association, State Senator Dave Min, a representative from the Legislative Analyst’s Office, and Kevin Gordon, President of Capitol Advisors Group. Students also had the option to attend an Assembly Budget Subcommittee hearing.
On day two, students met with Assemblywoman Cottie Petrie-Norris, Assemblyman Steven Choi and participated in a panel discussion. They also had the option to attend a Senate Education Committee meeting, which was the first meeting of the session.
In preparation for the advocacy program, students met weekly for one month to prepare for the trip to Sacramento. During this time, they met with IUSD Board Members, Superintendent Walker, District leadership, PTA leaders and others to learn more about education issues and priorities, IUSD’s budget, the LCFF and LCAP, legislative priorities and gain a better understanding of local and state governing.