Engaging Policymakers

Engaging Policymakers

There are a variety of ways to get involved in advocacy. In this section, find resources intended to help state Career Technical Education (CTE) leaders effectively advocate for and communicate the benefits of CTE.

Advocacy is how to persuade an audience to take the desired action, whether that action is the enactment of a policy, increased funding for CTE, ensuring robust stakeholder engagement, or any other desired federal action in support of wider advocacy objectives. 

There are a variety of ways to get involved in advocacy — it’s all about comfort level, capacity and intended outcomes. 

At the same time, it is important to be mindful of the legal boundaries on participation in advocacy efforts. Understanding what can be done in an official capacity and what can be done in a personal capacity is important. Check with your organization or agency to understand any limitations within your role.

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Federal Policy Agenda

Advance CTE believes each learner should have access to an innovative and responsive CTE ecosystem that prepares them for success in a career of their choice and that federal policy plays a key role in building that ecosystem.

Explore the Policy Agenda
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CTE Advocacy 101 Guide

Our CTE Advocacy 101 Guide provides an overview of how to be a CTE advocate and tips to be successful throughout the advocacy process.

View the Guide

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Additional Resources

Communications
Guides & Best Practices

Core Messages for Attracting Learners to CTE

A description of the message triangle - or core motivators - that should be at the center of any communications effort with secondary messages for populations …

Fact SheetGuides & Best Practices

Building and Sustaining Employer Engagement

Employer engagement is fundamental to building and sustaining high-quality CTE programs. As skill gaps and labor realignments continue to impact the workforce,…

State Policy
Guides & Best Practices

Key Tips for Briefing Policymakers on CTE

Straightforward advice on preparing to brief new leaders, with tailored guidance for and questions to expect from new governors, legislators, state board membe…

Build Your Case
Fact Sheet

Investing in CTE: An American Imperative

Illustrates the need for an increased federal investment in CTE.