NWTC Leadership Class Learns About Oklahoma's Legislative Process

By Melinda Barton
Northwest Technology Center

Many students visit the state capitol in Oklahoma City as a school field trip.  However, most don't combine the trip with a night at the theater, eating at a famous restaurant and touring a mansion. 

This was the day that students in Northwest Technology Center's Superintendent's Leadership Class experienced.  The group joined students from High Plains Technology Center (HPTC) in Woodward and Chisholm Trail Technology Center(CTTC) in Omega for the activities.  

The group started the day with lunch at the capitol.  The students were joined by Representative Jeff Hickman, Senator Owen Laughlin and Representative Rob Johnson.  While the students enjoyed their meal, the legislators described a typical day on the job, answered questions about economic development and other legislative issues. The group then toured the capitol building. 

Following the tour, the students watched the legislative process in action in the Gallery of the State House of Representatives. This was followed by a tour of the Oklahoma Governor's Mansion.

 Students enjoyed an early dinner at Toby Keith's restaurant in Bricktown followed by the performance of stage play  "Peter Pan" at downtown Oklahoma City's Civic Center Music Hall.

"This was the first time that I have been to the capitol," stated Haley Nida, Alva High School senior and student in Business and Information Technology at Northwest Technology Center, "I had so much fun and I really learned a lot. Speaking with the legislators was a highlight of the day for me." 

"We have had many great experiences this year.  This trip was a fun and educational way to learn about the legislative process and to enjoy some of the cultural activities that are offered right here in our state," said Derrick Willimon, adult student enrolled in Auto Collision Technology at Northwest Technology Center.   

This is the fourth year for Northwest Technology Center to have a leadership program. Students participate in a professional application and interview process.  The group members attend monthly meetings with topics such as business and professional etiquette, teambuilding and leadership.   

The students will end the year in May at a final banquet with former State Representative Clay Pope as the speaker. The leadership class is sponsored and funding is provided by the Northwest Technology Center Foundation. 

Students participating include Curtis Greb of Isabella, Jessica Fenn of Alva, Haley Nida of Alva, Chonda Chegwidden of Alva, Shannon Shipley of Alva, Dereck Willimon of Hooker, Ed Scott of Fairview, Jason Wallace of Fairview, Emma Broomfield of Ringwood, Gayla Wilder of Fairview, Denise Thompson of Fairview, Katy Severson of Isabella, Josh Kluckner of Longdale, and Taft Bozarth of Seiling.  

For more information, call 580.327.0344 in Alva or 580.227.3708 in Fairview,or visit the school's website at www.nwtechonline.com. 

Students from Northwest Technology Center, High Plains Technology Center and Chisholm Trail Technology Center toured the Oklahoma Governor's Mansion as a part of a trip to Oklahoma City to learn more about our state's legislative process.   The group is pictured here near the Oklahoma-shaped pool at the mansion.