VAST Advocacy

Part of VAST’s mission is to be the voice for Virginia Science teachers before governmental bodies and other organizations. The purpose of this committee is to use our time, energy, experience ,and knowledge to bring about changes in laws, policies, and programs for the benefit of high-quality science education in Virginia.

In order to maintain a nonprofit status under federal rules, the Virginia Association of Science Teachers is nonpartisan and works to direct its efforts at members of both political parties in order to enact change. When VAST officers or board members participate in legislative activities that educate lawmakers about officially adopted VAST positions, or support or oppose a particular piece of legislation that is in agreement with the VAST positions, it is done on a strictly nonpartisan basis.

A summary of ALL the numerous bills related to education can be found at https://www.doe.virginia.gov/data-policy-funding/virginia-board-of-education/education-legislation.

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1M8fL6CSHB8-75V8on321vXlLZzfOE6fYSlWnukNr6GE/preview

In 2023, VAST members were surveyed to provide the Advocacy Committee and VAST Board with direction on the advocacy focus areas. The summary Advocacy Priorities for 2024 and the full Advocacy Survey Report are here for your information.

VAST Advocacy Committee Members

Chair - Eric Rhoades, President-Elect

Region 1 - needed

Region 2 - needed

Region 3 - needed

Region 4 - Jason Calhoun

Region 5 - Andy Jackson

Region 6 - Sonya Wolen

Region 7 - Eric Hoffman

Region 8 - Tyler St. James