1. Expanding Your Reach: Coalition Building and Networking with Other Organizations Council for Exceptional Children

2. Collaboration Ideas Information Swap Newsletters Websites Local conferences Board conference calls Building Networks Identify liaisons Identify other like-minded organizations

3. Collaboration Ideas Develop joint public policy goals/agenda Outreach to state department of education Outreach to local school boards, parent groups, etc. Outreach among organization membership Outreach to other local organizations Develop joint public policy resources Issue briefs Website resources

4. One Voice Can Make a Difference… http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VQ3d 3KigPQMwww.youtube.com/watch?v=VQ3d 3KigPQM

5. Importance of Developing a Strong Foundation Year-round joint advocacy Outreach to policymakers & organization membership Developing messages (i.e. global competitiveness) Raising awareness Constant communication Collaboration Yields Results

6. Creating Local Victories Collaboration with like-minded organizations… - NAGC Affiliate - NEA/AFT Affiliate - School Boards - Many more!

7. Parting thought….. Let’s be pro-active, not re-active http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oRBchZL kQR0