DEFINITION:

Advocacy is active support for an idea or a cause. It can take many forms, including speaking up and drawing attention to an important issue. Advocacy may also include influencing decision-makers. Involving the interests of specific groups, organizations or the government.

In education, advocacy often revolves around topics such as funding, programs, services and supports with; the common denominator being the best interests of all Niagara Catholic students and the value of publicly funded Catholic education.

Board advocacy must be provided in accordance with the following conditions:

1. The Board shall focus on ongoing communication between school boards and government through established mechanisms and channels.

2. The Board may develop and approve position papers, presentations, advocacy strategies, and activities to present its position on issues affecting the Board and the education system to its education partners.

3. At no time shall students be used to promote a political position for the Board or school to the public, education partners, or the government.

4. Expenditures related to attending events specific to fundraising by political parties or local politicians will not be approved.

5. Content intended to advocate support for a particular position will not be placed with school materials.

6. The engagement of Board staff and students in advocacy initiatives must be consistent with the Vision and Values of the Niagara Catholic District School Boards.

Niagara Catholic District School Board *ADVOCACY POLICY* ADMINISTRATIVE OPERATIONAL PROCEDURES
100 - Board	Policy No 100.9

Adopted Date: March 27, 2007	Latest Reviewed/Revised Date: April 23, 2024