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The Face of AIDS: How To Approach Your School

how
to approach your school

Because of the
sensitive nature of the subject, there may be significant resistance
to the idea of bringing an educator with HIV into the it.

  • Make
    an appointment with the appropriate school administrator
    to discuss the idea.
  • Be
    able to explain clearly what you propose and why the speaker
    will complement and enhance what your school is offering
    already.
  • If
    you propose bringing in an outside program, come prepared
    with information about the program.
  • Be
    prepared to discuss ideas for funding the program if additional
    funds are required. Perhaps the PTA can help, local businesses,
    or the students can raise the funds.
  • The
    school administrator may ask you to speak with your colleagues
    who are responsible for family life or health education.
    Ask if you can bring with you the program’s coordinator
    and a speaker who can share their qualifications and answer
    questions about the program.
  • Ask
    for and provide your school with references from other schools
    or organizations who have used the program.
  • If
    you are inviting a friend or acquaintance living with HIV
    or AIDS, bring that person along to talk about what he or
    she can be expected to say.
  • Tell
    how you will prepare the students for the presentation,
    and debrief them afterwards.
  • Ask
    the school to present a preview of the presentation for
    parents, teachers, and community members. Some parents and
    teachers may worry that an educator with HIV will sensationalize
    the subject or say things that are inappropriate. This is
    an opportunity for them to assess whether the presenter
    is responsible, whether the speaker’s story is useful, and
    to ask questions.
  • Enlist
    the support of colleagues, parents, and community members
    who are supportive of the program.