What is the Student Advocacy Academy?
The JNCL-NCLIS Student Advocacy Academy is an interactive learning experience designed to prepare students across the United States to advocate for language education.
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Through guided sessions and hands-on activities, students learn how to communicate their experiences, understand the importance of language policy, and confidently speak up for language learning.
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This program is designed not just to inform—but to empower.
Why Student Advocacy Matters
Students bring powerful, authentic perspectives to conversations about language education. Their voices help shape programs, influence policy, and ensure that language learning remains accessible and relevant.
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By investing in student advocacy, we are building a future where language education continues to thrive—from pre-kindergarten through higher education.
How the Academy Works
The Academy consists of three virtual interactive sessions designed to build skills step-by-step.
Session 1: Introduction to Advocacy & Storytelling
Session 2: Building Advocacy Skills
Session 3: Putting Advocacy into Action
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Understanding language advocacy
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Exploring the power of personal stories
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Crafting your own advocacy message
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Refining your story
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Learning communication strategies
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Understanding policy and advocacy approaches
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Practicing real-world advocacy scenarios
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Developing an action plan
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Seeing yourself as an advocate
What Students Gain
Students leave the Academy with:
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A personal advocacy story
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Practical communication and leadership skills
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Experience applying advocacy in real scenarios
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A JNCL-NCLIS Student Advocate Badge (microcredential)
These tools empower students to continue advocating long after the program ends.
From Learning to Action
Students apply what they learn through real advocacy opportunities, including the opportunity to participate in Language Advocacy Days at a reduced rate.
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More importantly, they carry these skills forward —advocating in their schools, communities, and future careers.
