IWP at NWP 2011 Spring Meeting

NWP Spring Meeting 2011
Indiana Network Representatives

(left to right) Jeri Tarvin (IWP), Tammy Taylor (IWP), Barb Miller (IWP), and Steve Fox (Hoosier Writing Project); not pictured Linda Hanson (IWP)

----------------------------------------------------

The Tea Party wave, freshmen members of Congress, budget cuts, protests on the streets: The 2011 NWP Spring Meeting certainly had a much different mood from last year’s. But even so- perhaps because of these changing dynamics- our work on Capitol Hill this year felt more productive, and definitely more immediate.

After my first Spring Meeting in DC last year, I came away feeling the electricity that moves our legislative process. People in power who influence lawmakers had listened to my stories and testimony, and I left as satisfied as a champion debater who has crafted nine beautifully extemporaneous arguments. We spoke to assistants who were eager to hear about our work because they had teachers in their families, as well as those who were simply place holders for absentee education aides. But for each new audience, we altered our argument, emphasized a particular point, shared a special insight, and all in five minutes or less to allow others time to speak. It was a beautiful thing.

This year, our appointments gave me that same charge, but there was something more, something even better. This year, I felt that our words were not just a rhetorical exercise; they truly made a difference.

Perhaps it was because there are new people on the Hill to educate about NWP in general. Perhaps it was because there is more at stake, with funds already being slashed in the rush for fiscal responsibility. Perhaps it was because there are misconceptions about the nature of NWP and its classification as an earmark. Or perhaps it was because I know what to expect and am better able to pull my weight as a team member now.

Whatever the reasons, this year’s NWP Spring Meeting was an exceptionally energizing and rewarding opportunity to reflect on my work with IWP and students, and to share that enthusiasm and passion with a few people in our government who ultimately control education reform. And I think the others on the team felt the same.

This year’s five-person Indiana delegation was broad and deep. We represented site work in education both across levels K-18 and across program areas- from experienced teachers training classroom teachers, to new TCs integrating NWP principles in the classroom, to college faculty and TCs preparing future teachers, to writers sharing our findings with others across the country. Together, we made a strong impression on Indiana Members of Congress about how NWP already consists of exactly the kind of education that reformers are craving: It is innovative, accountable, transparent, and competitive.

This opportunity to share with legislators my understanding and appreciation for the work of NWP and its teachers gives me hope for our site, our network, and our national organization. With the support or interest of most Indiana Members of Congress, IWP will reorganize for the moment, and then move forward in new directions and with renewed momentum. I am honored to be part of that movement.

Submitted by Barb Miller, TC '09