WASHINGTON STATE

Washington State House Democrats

HOUSE DEMOCRATS

Pettigrew Introduces bill to improve school boards of large cities

Washington State Rep. Eric PettigrewState Rep. Eric Pettigrew knows every child should have the opportunity to succeed. But he also knows that too many students in large school districts are not able to get ahead. The system is failing them. Rep. Pettigrew knows that for these children, mostly students of color, students with disabilities and students in foster care, we need to do more.

“We can’t keep doing the same things and expect different results,” Pettigrew said. “When the current system isn’t working, it’s time to do something new, something smarter. That’s why I’ve introduced new legislation, HB 1497, that will bring a more global, holistic approach to the administration of large school districts.”

The bill applies to school districts that have a city with a population of greater than 400,000 people within their boundaries. Currently, only the Seattle School District fits this criteria. The Seattle School Board currently has seven members, all elected based on geographic location. HB 1497 will continue these geographic based elections for five of the school board members, but phase in appointments, in 2018 and 2020 for two of the members. The appointments would be made by the Seattle Mayor.

“This is about equal opportunity for all our children,” said Rep. Pettigrew. If they work hard and study hard, they should be able to succeed. It’s our job to give them the support and tools they need. Our students should not be victim to the politics and turbulence of those in charge. I hope that with more continuity in the administration, fewer children, especially at-risk children, will continue to slip through the cracks.”