Can systems change really happen? What key strategies and messaging can bring it about? The Illinois ESSA arts indicator process provides a specific case study in how strategic advocacy can bring about meaningful change to advance arts education. Come to learn strategies you can apply to your own policy advocacy efforts!
Presenter Bios
Jonathan VanderBrug serves as Deputy Director-Civic Engagement for Arts Alliance Illinois. He coordinated the 18-month process of updating Illinois’ arts learning standards and co-chaired the Illinois ESSA Arts Indicator Work Group.He has also served as Community Educator, Field Museum; Health Care Justice Director, Campaign for Better Health Care; and Policy Advisor, Michigan House of Representatives. He earned his Master of Nonprofit Administration degree from North Park University. In 2017, the Illinois Art Education Association awarded Jonathan its President’s Award for his arts education advocacy.
Dr. Jason Helfer is Deputy Officer for Instructional Education at the Illinois State Board of Education. Prior to this he was an associate professor and department chair at Knox College in Galesburg, Illinois. Dr. Helfer has taught at Millikin University and the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. He was also an elementary school teacher in Evanston, Illinois and Grapevine-Colleyville, Texas.
Karla Estela Rivera is an artist and advocate, dedicating her career to uplifting and creating opportunities for, with, and in underserved communities. Her beginnings as a teaching artist served as a foundation for roles in systems-level leadership, including as co-chair of the IL Fine Arts Indicator work group. Currently, she serves a executive director of the historic Free Street Theater. She is a native of Mayagüez, Puerto Rico, holds a BA from Columbia College Chicago, with graduate studies at NYU. Karla still performs (live & on zoom) and consults on advocacy initiatives nationally.
Access additional 2020 AEP Virtual Gathering resources here.
