Making a Difference for Our Children Issue of the Month
Realities of Education Funding in WA

As the League of Voters asks: “Why are schools still struggling even after the passage of two education initiatives?”  Washington’s constitution commands that “education is the paramount duty of the State”. In reality, education does not appear #1; in 2003-2004, the State spent $7,440 per student, ranking below 30 other states.
 
Washington allocates school moneys pretty much as it did in 1977; the formula remains in the disco era. What can be done?
 
The work begins with revisiting the definition of basic education or how much does it costs to teach “every child”. Simply put, it canvasses the needs from two directions:
1)       Every child means every type of child learner. Currently the formula does not include special education, highly capable, bilingual and alternative learners or extra assistance for the poor.
2)      Every child means support for all children.  Currently, the formula does not include fully funded school transportation, libraries, technology proficiency, or support for WASL graduation requirements and other mandates. Another big failure: no accounting for local cost differences.
 
Legislators rejected earlier studies’ assessments of what it takes to educate a child, yet refuse to change funding without one.  In 2005, advocates were successful in passing legislation which resulted in Washington Learns, an educational steering committee chaired by Governor Gregoire. Its recommendations will (hopefully) be accepted.  Now Legislators need even more of a push from parents like you.  You can make a difference!
 
Please visit Washington Learns at: www.washingtonlearns.wa.gov