Tuvalu
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Anthony Dabalos had colleagues who knew every corner, nook and cranny of Ellensburg.
But that didn't lessen the enthusiasm in solving a handful of clues to the city's funky treasures.
Dabalos, a teacher at Wapato High School, and 24 others recently took a journey to learn how small locals can use their resources creatively and work together to accomplish greater goals.
It was all part of an assignment for Tuvalu, a class created by WEA to help small and rural locals find ways they can connect with one another and with WEA.
"Sometimes it feels like we are forgotten because we are so small, so this was a good way to make a connection," Wapato EA member Dabalos said. "Tuvalu was a fun learning experience to meet other teachers and members of smaller locals."
Tuvalu was launched as one of nearly two dozen courses ranging from creative problem solving to advanced grievance advocacy offered at WEA's Leadership Academy (WEALA).
"Tuvalu is aimed at small and rural locals to find ways that they can connect with one another and with WEA," said Tuvalu instructor Eddie Westerman, who led the class with communications colleague Linda Woo and Sammamish UniServ Rep. Caroline McDowell.
The class is based on the success of a small island nation named Tuvalu, which is located between Australia and Hawaii.
WEALA, another example of how union dues are used to enhance growth and success for members, is about building new skills, giving WEA members practical tips to use in their classrooms, schools and locals, and recognizing others' resources.
It's also an opportunity for school employees to relax, learn, network and have fun. Several hundred school employees attend WEALA each year.
For more information about how your local can get involved in Tuvalu, and when the next Tuvalu class will meet, contact Eddie Westerman at
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