Washington citizens want quality schools
Over the course of the last several years, Washington voters have expressed strong support for Washington's public schools. They've passed initiatives to increase educator pay, reduce class size and put an end to the idea of siphoning money away from an already underfunded school system by implementing charter schools.
When asked in a December 2005 statewide voter survey*, respondents said that, if the state could increase funding in only one area it would choose public education (44 percent), taking precedence over health care (31 percent) and transportation (20 percent). That finding has been fairly consistent over time.
In that same poll, voters clearly believe that investing in public education will strengthen the economy and create greater opportunities for our children to succeed in a global marketplace.
Ambiguity over the problem
While Washington citizens clearly support public schools, when it comes to the notion of the need to permanently increase school funding, they are divided as to whether the state does or does not provide enough money for schools. And, they are just as unclear on the overall funding picture. Has it gone up, down or remained the same? Responses are mixed. Yet, when asked specific questions about needs and priorities, the public is there - they choose public education. Our goal is to ensure that citizens have the facts and that we've defined the funding problem clearly for them.
Your voice matters
Who best to tell the "real" stories about funding in ways that people can relate to, and understand. Voters tell us that class size matters, that expanding or restoring enrichment programs count and that increasing salaries for teachers and education support professionals is important. Now, we need your help in increasing everyone's awareness around funding - the current reality, what it will take and what it could look like. We encourage you to look at other stories, share your own story with us and others, and study the facts and figures.
Speak out
Share your stories, share the facts and tell others that:
- We need to invest in smaller classes, so kids get the attention they need to learn. Our large class sizes are unacceptable.
- We need to make sure that all schools, regardless of location or population, have the resources to allow every child the opportunity to succeed.
- The Legislature must reverse this funding trend, and stop shortchanging the future of our children. It's their "paramount duty," as outlined in the state constitution.
- The state must attract and keep high-quality educators. After five years of teaching, one in three leaves the profession.
We need to restore our state's commitment to quality public education. Together, let's Take the lead.
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