The legislature

In my quest to be exposed to the world where my children spend most of their week days, I have volunteered in classrooms, and for the PTO. I started to learn about measurement tests, Gifted Programs, and curriculum strands. I attended school board meetings and the PTA convention. I joined parent groups and attended workshops.

Education is a system that will shape the lives of my daughters and I want to understand it.

My latest endeavor is getting to know the Education Committees of our legislature. I set out to show up at the Capitol on the day there was to be a joint session where Tom Horne would present his “State of Education 2007” speech.

The room buzzed with excitement and I was thrilled to be there. I sat in the back with my pen in hand and a copy of his speech which I planned to later share with my like minded parent friends. I admit I liked being in close proximity to this man who seems to be highly respected by the lawmakers present, for his commitment to high standards. I took notes and scribbled ideas for further research.

I like to think of my quests as puzzles, and this is one more important piece. I want to see first hand how an idea becomes a law, how discussions empower people, and how I, as a citizen and a parent, can make a difference.

Look for me at the Capitol..