Education

The most important duty of our state is to educate every child. As a mother, I know that the state's entire quality of life rests upon quality education for our youth. Unfortunately, school districts in our own community have vastly unequal resources, with some of the most highly ranked schools in the nation neighboring some of the lowest. Worse yet, in the current economy, even the previously secure schools are struggling. I have proudly co-sponsored a plan to transform the funding system for our state education to help our school districts facing millions of dollars in budget deficits, and the potential for devastating cut backs our kids simply can’t afford.

I co-sponsored one of the most sweeping education reform bills, House Bill 2776, that passed this year. It establishes a new model of budgeting, simplifying the process and increasing transparency, so families in Washington State know where their education dollars are going. The bill phases in smaller classes from kindergarten through third grade, so children can get the specialized attention they need to flourish. I voted to fully fund basic education and ensure all our students the resources they need to pass the High School Proficiency Exam (HSPE) (formerly the WASL).

Furthermore, to prepare children for lifetime success as early as possible, I voted to help low-income families afford childcare.

On top of providing basic education, I have dedicated myself to increasing college enrollment. As a graduate of the University of Washington, I recognize the value of state colleges and believe more of our students should be able to attend them. With one of the most generous financial aid programs in the nation, Washington State is now a leader in providing access to college education to our students, and I am determined to continue helping students afford a college education.