Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/956367
WEA President Kathy Vetter (left) and Governor Matt Mead (right) share a light moment during a tough session. Representative Stan Blake (left) and Representative Patrick Sweeney (right) give the "thumbs up" for education. 3 Legislators, members, staff, allies, and Governor Mead attended the annual legislative reception in February hosted by the WEA and the Wyoming Public Employees Association. The reception was an opportunity for people to come together and talk about the issues of importance in this year's session and for the WEA to continue the important conversations about public education. The hottest topic in the room was how decision makers would deal with public education funding. The following day, the WEA worked closely with the Equality State Policy Center (ESPC) to provide SHAPE WY training—ESPC's grassroots lobbying training. The WEA provided a breakout session on public education, where students and members were trained to influence the legislative process on behalf of their communities and were provided with the tools and resources to be effective. The training was followed by an afternoon at the legislature. While at the statehouse, those representing education were able to talk with several legislators, making their voice heard on behalf of the whole of the WEA. That is the power of your WEA. Your membership represents the collective voice to improve the practice of classroom teachers and other education professionals, plus the grassroots power to promote equity to help all students fulfill their academic potential. Events like these can continue to help us succeed together! Your WEA at Work Grassroots Organizing for Change During the 2018 Legislative Session WEA Executive Director Ron Sniffin (left) enjoys a conversation with Wyoming Public Employees Association members from the Northwest. House Education Committee Chairman David Northrup (mid-right) and his wife Astrid Northrup (right) enjoy time with WEA Kathy Vetter (mid-left) and WEA UniServ Joe Clingenpeel (left).