Regarding advocacy and public policy efforts to address poverty, which statement is true?

• A. Neither advocacy nor policy work is necessary.
• B. Public policy alone is necessary.
• C. Both advocacy and public policy are skills school psychologists should develop.
• D. Advocacy alone is sufficient.

Answer: (C)

This item focuses on the idea that to address poverty effectively, school psychologists should develop both advocacy and public policy skills, not just one in isolation. Advocacy builds awareness, mobilizes families and communities, and helps stakeholders understand students’ needs. Public policy work translates that understanding into concrete changes—laws, funding, and program structures—that make a lasting impact. Together, these approaches address immediate support for students and the larger systems that create barriers, so changes are both felt in classrooms now and sustained over time.

If you only focus on policy, you might secure funding or regulations but miss the kinds of community buy-in and practical, real-world messaging that drive implementation. If you only advocate, you might raise awareness without securing the policies and resources needed to make systemic improvements. And doing neither leaves gaps where students continue to be affected by poverty despite good intentions.