2026 UEA Policy Ambassadors

Policy Ambassadors Help Shape the Future of Utah's Public Education

Policy changes are a constant in the ever-evolving landscape of Utah's public schools. However, the impact of these changes on students and educators doesn't always align with the best outcomes. The question is, how can you make a difference? Enter the UEA Policy Ambassador program – a pathway for educators like you to influence policymaking and drive positive educational change.

Every year, the UEA Policy Ambassador program equips a diverse group of educators with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the complex world of policy issues. By participating, you become part of a movement that seeks to improve the educational landscape.

Don't let policy changes happen without your input. Be a driving force for positive outcomes in education. Join the UEA Policy Ambassador program and become an advocate for students, educators, and the future of Utah's public schools.

Program Overview

Every year, dozens of policy changes affect Utah’s public schools, but these changes don’t always result in the best outcomes for students and educators. Learn how YOU can influence policymaking to achieve better outcomes for students and the education profession by joining the UEA Policy Ambassador program.

The Policy Ambassador program is designed to:

Build a cohort of trained educators to speak on policy issues
Develop and apply leadership skills to positively impact public education
Magnify the educator's voice in the policymaking process

Program Requirements

The Policy Ambassador program combines in-person learning with on-demand learning and self-paced assignments.

Attend:
- Fall Retreat (Saturday, Oct. 25, 2025, from 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. at UEA HQ in Murray)
- Policymaking and Funding in Action (Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2025, from 5:00-6:00 p.m. virtual)
- Legislative preview meeting (Thursday, Feb 5, 2026, from 6:00-8:30 p.m. at UEA).
- Educator Day on the Hill (Friday, Feb 6, 2026 from 7 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. at the Capitol)
- Legislative wrap-up meeting (Tuesday, March 17, 2026 from 5:00-6:30 p.m. virtual)
Complete:
- UEA Professional Learning Academy online courses:
  - Welcome to Your Union
  - Under the Dome – Magnifying Educator Voices in the Political Process
  - Basics of Public Education Funding
Write:
- One blog for UEA’s Under the Dome website describing the Policy Ambassador experience
Contact:
- Your State Senator and State Representative on a policy or funding issue

Additional Details

Program runs from Oct. 25, 2025, to Mar. 31, 2026.
A $100 stipend will be paid upon completion of all program activities
Receive 20 hours of professional learning credit
Hotel, mileage, and substitute costs will be paid for mandatory in-person meetings (Fall Retreat and Educator Day on the Hill)
Up to 20 participants will be selected.

Questions?

Dr. Sara Jones
Director, Government Relations and Professional Programs
(801) 417-0241

Email Dr. Jones

This opportunity is open to current UEA members only. For more information on how to join the association, visit myuea.org/join-now. To verify membership status, email [email protected]