- 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.
|
