SCHOOL BOARD MEETING

Research and identify your issue.
Start by learning about your school’s policies and figuring out what issue you want to bring to the district’s attention. Look for areas where student voices can make a difference — like school safety, mental health resources, or fair discipline practices.

You can speak about anything that impacts students — from funding for counselors, to restorative justice programs, to ending harmful safety measures like armed teachers. Focus on what directly affects you and your peers.

Write your speech.
Put together a short speech that:

• Explains the issue you’re raising
• Shares facts or stories that show why it matters
• Connects to your personal experience or motivation
• Clearly states what action you want the school board to take

Check your district’s guidelines for public comments — most limit speakers to 1–2 minutes.

Need help writing your speech?
Check out our Write a Speech and Public Speaking toolkits for structure, tone, and delivery tips.

Sign up to speak.
Before the meeting, check if you need to register or fill out a form to speak during public comment. Some school boards require sign-up ahead of time or at the start of the meeting. If you’re attending with a group, coordinate who’s speaking and what each person will cover.

Show up and speak out.
Arrive early, bring a copy of your speech, and check in with the board secretary or clerk.
When it’s your turn to speak:

• Take a deep breath, speak clearly, and stay calm.
• Thank the board for their time.
• End with a clear call to action (what you want them to do next).

If you’re nervous, practice with friends or other MFOL members beforehand.

Follow up and share.
After the meeting, email the board to thank them for listening and restate your main points. Post a recap or photo on social media, tag March For Our Lives, and share how it went — your story can inspire others to speak up, too!