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Start a Chapter
Start Your Own State Alternative Education Chapter
Starting a state chapter provides a unique opportunity for local networking among educators who share your passion for alternative education. Tailored professional development ensures that you and your members receive the resources you need to thrive. Together, you can create a unified voice to advocate for the needs and rights of alternative learners.
Steps to Start Your State Association
Starting a new State Alternative Education Organization is an exciting opportunity to make a difference in your community.
Follow these essential steps to establish a strong foundation for your organization.
1. Hold an Initial Meeting
Hold a meeting for all interested in the organization. Decide on a monthly meeting schedule, conference line, etc. Conference lines are available for free.
2. Elect Your Organization's Officers
Choose a President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer.
3. Define Your Mission and Vision
Determine your organization's mission and vision.
4. Apply as a State for Seed Money from NAEA
The completed form goes to the NAEA Board for approval and a check for $500 will be sent to help you cover the cost of the 501c3 application which is usually about $300.
5. Open a Bank Account
Once money is received, open a bank account for your organization and apply (bank will help you) for the 501c3 status.
6. Communication
Determine your state's best network of communication and how information can be disseminated to all teachers in alternative schools, including how it will be updated regularly.
Outline this process on paper.
7. Membership
Decide how you will recruit members, whether they will be charged a membership fee, and what benefits your organization can offer to members. This also may change as you grow.
Think of ways to advertise your organization.
8. Join NAEA
Encourage all members to join NAEA for free on the NAEA website so they are placed on our mailing list for updates on coming events.
9. Update Your Regional Director
Keep your regional director informed of your organization’s current officers so communication will flow freely. You can find your regional director on the NAEA website. We are all in the relationship business, so the national organization wants to get to know you & help you celebrate the great work you are doing with students in your state!
10. Grow!
Continue to have meetings and grow your organization. Add a motto, mascot, logo, website, brochures, business cards, banners! Hold state conferences & meetings to provide professional learning & networking opportunities for your members!
Keep in touch regularly with your regional director from the National organization to be sure you are aware of new opportunities to be involved at the national level.
FAQs
Find answers to common questions about starting your own state alternative education organization.
To start your own state alternative education organization, begin by holding an initial meeting. Gather interested individuals to discuss goals and set a regular meeting schedule. This foundational step is crucial for building a strong network.
This resource can help get you started:
How to Start Your State Chapter.
There are ten basic steps to follow, listed above, including electing officers and defining your mission. It's essential to apply for seed money from NAEA to support your initial costs. Each step helps establish a sustainable organization.
Decide on a membership strategy, including potential fees and benefits. Consider creative ways to promote your organization to attract members. Engaging your community is key to growth.
Joining NAEA connects you with a larger network of alternative education professionals. Membership is free and provides access to valuable resources and updates. It's an essential step for anyone involved in alternative education.
Keep your regional director informed about your organization's progress and current officers. Regular communication ensures you stay in the loop with national initiatives. This relationship is vital for ongoing support and collaboration.