TVW is Washington's public affairs network, our state's version of C-SPAN.  They broadcast the proceedings of the legislature end-to-end during the legislative session.  Outside of the session, TVW broadcasts legislative hearings, public policy events, interviews with political figures and other interesting shows.

Below I have cut and pasted a memo from TVW's director, Greg Lane, about their new program "Teach with TVW", http://www.teachwithtvw.org/

"Last week, you may have caught the e-mail we sent announcing a dynamic and interactive new education resource program created by TVW.  By connecting, for the first time, each and every school classroom directly to the legislative process, we believe Teach with TVW will help transform the way civics is taught in Washington.

Teach with TVW was developed over the past year in cooperation with OSPI and with the input from leading social studies teachers and offers curriculum that supports the teaching of Washington state government as part of civics instruction.  Through short clips of TVW programming, organized by teaching topics, reinforced by classroom discussion points and linked to Washington’s civics standards, Teach with TVW will create and nurture an interest in students about public policy issues and promote and foster their lifetime involvement as informed citizens. 

And because Teach with TVW is being carried on the K-20 network, the high-speed, high-capacity network that links all public schools, teachers and students across the state have ready access to this new resource directly in the classroom. 

Needless to say, we are very excited about Teach with TVW.  And so far the resource has been received enthusiastically by educators.  Legislators too have also shown great interest and been very supportive. 

In 2009, however, TVW faces the challenges of both ensuring educators learn about this new resource and continuing to enhance the programming so that Teach with TVW remains a dynamic and valuable classroom tool.  To accomplish those goals, we are seeking private financial support for the program. 

Similar to our capital campaign, TVW will recognize contributions to Teach with TVW in a variety of ways, including on-air promotion, logo placement on the Teach with TVW website, and more.  I’ve attached a flyer outlining the details on sponsorship benefits.  

We’re very pleased that Verizon has already stepped forward to be the first Lead Sponsor of Teach with TVW.  Other commitments include ConocoPhillips as a Promoter. 

I know you have been strong supporters of TVW in the past.  Based on that history, would you have some interest in contributing to Teach with TVW, either before the end of this year or sometime in 2009? 

If so, I’d appreciate the chance to talk with you more or answer any questions you might have.   Please let me know and I’ll follow up with you to discuss the program in more detail."

As you can see, TVW is leveraging its ubiquity to help our students learn more about civics, government and public policy.  They are looking for sponsors and contributors.  See the attached document for how you can get involved in this exciting effort.  Please do what you can to help.  Thank you.