Small Steps, Big Impact: One DSST parent’s advocacy story

When you get involved with DSST as a parent or community member, your steps may be small — but your collective impact is big.

“DSST is a community, and our involvement serves the whole,” said DSST Byers mom Lan Spengler. “When I get involved, I know my input is helping others. Our involvement sets a path for our kids and for future kids.”

For example, when Spengler receives the monthly parent email from DSST CEO Bill Kurtz, she explores the resources he shares — from student success stories to school board candidate information.

“His letter feels like it’s coming from him and he’s your neighbor, or he’s another parent here talking to you," she said. "That’s my ritual every month. I sit down with a cup of coffee and learn what’s going on at school.”

Casting an informed vote for the school district board is another step she takes. Spengler believes her involvement helps give her daughters — and the next generation of scholars — every opportunity for success.

Spengler believes her involvement helps give her daughters — and the next generation of scholars — every opportunity for success. She encourages other parents to find one simple step toward involvement that works for them.

Choose your one step toward involvement today:

• Set a calendar reminder to read emails from DSST. Choose an email from your school or the network and take time to read and explore the links inside.
• Email your school and ask about serving on a parent panel or in another supporting role.
• Research the school board candidates in your district and learn about the issues that impact public charter schools like DSST.
• Make a plan to vote in all elections, especially those that directly affect students/schools.

Click to hear what attracted Lan Spengler and her family to DSST,