AWSA’s Future Work with Our National AffiliatesSince its inception in 1978, AWSA has been a proud state affiliate of both national associations. While NAESP and NASSP have specific groups of school leaders they serve (K-8 for NAESP & 6-12 for NASSP), there is much of their work that overlaps. For decades AWSA has worked with our state affiliate colleagues across the country to strongly encourage the national associations to collaborate as much as possible, especially with advocacy, conferences, and recognition events. For example, in 2017, AWSA joined numerous state affiliates in formally requesting the nationals hold a joint convention. Over the last few years, NAESP and NASSP have held joint advocacy events and a national conference. However, this is coming to an end and both will hold separate advocacy events and conferences. The lack of cooperation between NAESP and NASSP has been a barrier to strong, strategic, state and national collaboration in support of school principals. In short, if the national conversation is focused on whether or not the nationals will hold joint events year after year it crowds out the space for strong, strategic collaboration with the state affiliates on strengthening the profession. With all of this in mind, AWSA has invited both NAESP and NASSP to reply to a request for information about the possibility of serving as the sole PK-12 national affiliate for Wisconsin school leaders in the future. Both NAESP and NASSP notified us that they intend to respond by November 17th. And, we expect to make a decision on the best path moving forward by the end of January. Last month AWSA surveyed members who also belong to NAESP or NASSP and the majority supported this approach.
It has never been more important to have a strong unified national voice supporting learning and leadership. We will keep members informed as this process moves forward. |