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Home > Parents > Calls
Making Effective Telephone Calls To Local Legislators
Because legislators are busy, you most likely will speak with a staff member when calling. This is perfectly acceptable. He/she will take your comments and answer any questions you have. The following are tips for a successful call:
- Prepare your thoughts ahead of time; write a note to use as reference during your call. Make sure all of your facts are accurate.
- Keep your comments brief - no more than five minutes. Begin and end by stating a one-sentence main point that indicates what action you want the legislator to take, such as "I am calling to ask you to support charter schools and greater educational freedom for all families."
- Do not call when you are upset or angry. How you treat the staff person will impact how he/she represents your comments to the official. Always be polite. Listen and respond carefully and courteously.
- You are entitled to request a written reply from the legislator.
- Be sure to give your name and address. (Know that some legislators consider comments only from persons who reside inside their elective district.)
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