Southwest Education Advocates
Southwest Education Advocate Program
What is the Southwest Education ADVOCATE program?
The Southwest Education Advocate (SEA) program offers community members a behind-the-scenes look at Southwest Allen County Schools (SACS) through eight learning sessions.
Through classroom visits, hands-on experiences and open conversations with district leaders, students and staff, participants discover what it takes to educate, support and prepare today’s students for tomorrow’s opportunities. Advocates explore our schools, programs and daily operations, from academics and student services to school finance and future planning.. These experiences deepen participants’ understanding of public education, highlight our schools’ successes and offer insight into the challenges we face.
Guided by the district’s mission, SEA supports the five focus areas of the SACS Strategic Plan: academics, attracting and retaining talent, communication, community building and mental health. The program encourages questions, builds understanding and strengthens connections between our schools and community.
Be an ADVOCATE
Applications are now open for the Class of 2027 Southwest Education Advocate Program
Parents, grandparents, SACS staff, graduates, business leaders are encouraged to apply. Whether you have a strong connection to SACS or simply want to learn more about your local public schools, SEA offers an opportunity to get involved. If you are curious about what happens in our schools, interested in the decisions that shape education or eager to support students and staff, this program is for you. No prior expertise in education is necessary, just a willingness to learn and a commitment to our community.
Each class is small by design, allowing more time for questions, meaningful conversations and deeper exploration of topics. Participants are selected to bring together a diverse group of community-minded people with a range of backgrounds, experiences and perspectives.
Advocates in the Class of 2027 should be committed to attending the eight learning sessions scheduled throughout the school year , dedicating two hours to each session, and participating in thoughtful, constructive discussions. Applicants should support the mission, vision, beliefs and goals of SACS and bring an open mind, their questions and a shared interest in helping our schools and students succeed.
Mission of SOUTHWEST EDUCATION ADVOCATES
The mission of the Southwest Education Advocate (SEA) program is to connect community members with the people, programs and daily operations of Southwest Allen County Schools through firsthand experiences and open dialogue. By deepening understanding of our schools’ successes, opportunities and challenges, SEA builds informed advocates who strengthen community connections and support the students, teachers and staff at the heart of our district.
About US
The Southwest Education Advocate program will bring together a diverse group, including parents, grandparents, business leaders, teachers, and others who are dedicated to enhancing student achievement and fostering community involvement with Southwest Allen County Schools (SACS). Advocates operate independently from SACS and do not represent the corporation. However, our objective is offer a window into the district's day-to-day operations. By doing so, Advocates can better provide support to our teachers, bolster student success. Our shared goal is to ensure our schools are the best they can be for our children.
The Southwest Education Advocate program is designed to:
EXPLORE Our Schools
Go beyond what you remember from your own school days and discover SACS today. Through firsthand experiences, Advocates see learning in action and meet the people whose work keeps our schools running. This access offers a fuller picture of how we serve students and put our mission into practice.
CONNECT Through Conversation
Bring your questions and your perspective. Open discussions with district leaders explore the reasons behind decisions, plans for the future and the effects of education policy. Listening and learning together builds trust and helps SACS better understand the community we serve.
BUILD Informed Support
Understanding our schools’ successes, opportunities and challenges prepares Advocates to make a meaningful difference. With reliable information and firsthand knowledge, they can share what they learn, strengthen community connections and speak up for the needs of students, teachers and staff.