More Than a Fellowship: My Experience at Education Reformers Academy

By Samoy Mainda, CEAM Outreach Coordinator – Western Missouri

There is always more to learn about being a strong advocate for families. Last week, I had the chance to sharpen my skills at the Education Reformers Academy (ERA), a multi-day training program for education advocates and leaders.

I loved the hands-on nature of the program; instead of just sitting and listening, we took part in group activities, asked questions, and shared our thoughts. Our group had fewer than 25 people, which made the setting feel intimate and personal. I was able to benefit from the experiences other participants shared.  

Although the days were long, the time went by quickly! Each session gave us something new to think about that I will be able to use in my work with CEAM. During the Academy we learned about:

• education laws, 
• how policies are made, 
• how to work with lawmakers, and
•  why it is important to look at the results of education programs.

The diversity of the other participants made the training sessions even more meaningful. Even though we came from different places, we shared a common goal of helping children receive a quality education. I was reminded that no one person or group can do everything alone. Sharing ideas and learning from others can help us find new ways to solve problems.

The experience was not only about what happened in the classroom. Some of my favorite moments were sitting down for meals, laughing, and getting to know the other fellows. Those moments helped turn new faces into friendships.

Later in the week, ERA alumni from across the United States joined us for the weekend. It was exciting to hear about their work and the paths they have taken since completing the program. After finishing our fellowship, we officially became ERA alumni, too! We have access to an app where we can stay in touch, share educatoin news, celebrate accomplishments, post job opprotunities, and support one another. Knowing these new colleagues will continue to make the experience even more meaningful.

This fellowship gave me a greater appreciation for my work at the Children’s Education Alliance of Missouri (CEAM). As a parent advocate, I help families learn about their school options, understand education laws and rules, and find the courage to speak with lawmakers about issues that affect their children.

Leaving ERA, I felt thankful, encouraged, and even more certain that education advocacy is the path I want to continue. The fellowship helped me understand that making changes in education takes more than having good ideas. It takes learning how laws work, listening to different views, building relationships, and understanding what families need. I was also reminded that the work does not stop when training ends or a new law is passed. 

I came to Education Reformers Academy ready to learn, but I left with so much more. I gained knowledge, friendships, and a stronger purpose. The fellowship may have ended, but the work is far from over. Because education is not just about where a child goes to school. It is about where that child has the opportunity to go in life.