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The Issues » Preparing our students to succeed

“It is the paramount duty of the state to make ample provision for the education of all children residing within its borders, without distinction or preference on account of race, color, caste, or sex.”  Article IX, Washington State Constitution

Nothing is more important than educating our kids. Education is the foundation of our economy, society, and democracy.

I am proud to be a key leader in the Legislature for meaningful education reform.  Through my work on the House Education Committee and the Quality Education Council, along with my sponsorship of House Bill 2261 and House Bill 2776, I have been part of a bi-partisan team focusing on significantly strengthening our K-12 education system. 

This reform is focused on addressing:

• Adequacy and transparency in state funding;
• Increased standards and academic rigor; and
• Meaningful accountability at all levels— from the principal to the classroom, and from the central office to Olympia!

In the last two years, we have made significant progress toward a more educated and more prosperous Washington, but we must continue to follow through.

Adding further urgency to the task, a February court decision by Judge John Erlick, found the State is not living up to it constitutional responsibility with regard to K-12 education. More information about Judge Erlick’s ruling can be found here.