"Even if you don't have kids, you should care about public education," says Lesley Chilcott, producer of Waiting for "Superman." "If we want to solve global warming, poverty, health care and the economy, we need to have an educated society. Education is ground zero for tackling all these issues." Check out Chilcott's ideas for what YOU, a concerned citizen, can do to make a difference today.
1. Pledge to See the Film
When you sign up at this Web site and take the pledge to see Waiting for "Superman," you will be sent a $5 redemption code to help fund a classroom project of your choice through DonorsChoose.org. "The film is a breakdown of what the problems are, so that you can understand a little more why it's been so complicated all of these years," says Chilcott.
"Even if you don't have kids,
you should care about public education."
2. Help Your Local School
"Call the school in your neighborhood and ask what they need." For example, when Chilcott called the school near her, they needed volunteers every Wednesday at 3PM. But if you can't commit to a regular schedule, ask for other ways to help. Check out how you can make an impact near you.
3. Attend a School Board Meeting
Find time to attend the next school board meeting and make your opinion known. "Find out who is on your school board and encourage them to pay attention to reform," says Chilcott. "Speak up, and demand that we train and reward great teachers."
For information about your local school board check out NSBA.org.
Are you taking action for America's students? Join the conversation on the WFS Facebook page and tell us what's working in your community.
