What's happening in DC?

About 4 times a year, our NEA Board of Directors and I spend a day on Capitol Hill visiting each of the offices of our representatives in Washington, DC. Coincidentally, we usually represent at least three of the congressional districts with our team. The tough economic times have highlighed for me the quality of thinking, the depth of analysis, and the spirit of problem solving that is evident with two of our more experienced legislators - Reps. Dennis Moore and Jerry Moran. Representing two different parties, this also is heartening to know that some legislators are able to look beyond position or party to try and find real solutions. Rep. Lynn Jenkins also spent a good block of time with us and, while we are definitely not on the same page on some issues, there is a sense that she is still listening to the voice of teachers and has not colosed out her constituents in favor of predetermined positions. We'll watch carefully how each one of these folks votes AND how they work together across party lines to solve the tough problems of health care, education funding for growth, and our economy.

One more note... our visits to the Hill accompany a series of other meetings so that we maximize every minute of a 3 day trip to DC. During the NEA Board Meeting on Friday, the 25th, we were fortunate to be joined by Secretary of Education Arne Duncan. Ever since he was named as Secretary, we have been encouraged that he shares our concerns about poor assessment systems that fail to measure growth, lack of a focus on 21st century skills, and teacher salaries that fall far below comparable professions. Solutions? We're still working on those and don't always agree. But being at the table to help craft the solutions is a significant indicator that the Secretary honors the profession of teaching. With all the challenges we face, that's good news.