Representative Sharon Tomiko Santos was reappointed to chair the House Education Committee for the 2013 legislative session by the House Democratic Caucus. Santos is entering her eighth term as a representative from Seattle and her third year chairing the House Education Committee.
“The incoming Legislature must focus on resolving the problems identified in the McCleary decision that was handed down by the Supreme Court earlier this year,” said Santos.
“While the court acknowledged the critical reforms we enacted during the past decade to improve public education, we have much more work to do to put our money where our mouth is. I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle and in the Senate to build the necessary bridge towards a stronger, more stable, and sustainable funding future for student success.”
In January, the state Supreme Court ruled in the McCleary decision that the state has failed to meet its constitutional obligation to fully fund basic education.
“We cannot help our students through cuts alone,” said Santos. “We need to have some serious conversations in all corners of the state about how get more revenue and resources into our schools and classrooms.”
In addition to funding, Santos’ legislative priorities for the upcoming session include:
1) Strengthening student learning opportunities, both in school and out-of-school, including extra-curricular activities and employment internships;
2) Equipping education leaders and staff with the best tools and resources that they need to produce successful and equitable student achievement;
3) Improving the data we collect so that policymakers, teachers, and families can make better informed decisions about education policies and practices.
“Education is important to all of us, so we each have a stake in building a strong public education system that prepares every student for college or career and for civic life.”
Santos was also appointed to the Business & Financial Services Committee and the Community Development, Housing & Tribal Affairs Committee.