Thursday, April 5, 2012

Jay Inslee Unveils Education Plan - Proposes an Innovative and Accountable School System

APRIL 5, 2012
Contact:
JAIME SMITH | 253.334.5670

Renton, WA – In a speech to parents, teachers and education advocates today, Democratic gubernatorial candidate Jay Inslee introduced his vision for public schools and announced a plan to make Washington schools work for every child.
“If we're going to grow our economy, build on our quality of life and continue our legacy of innovation we need educated young people ready to take jobs in the knowledge economy of the 21st century,” said Inslee. “As governor, I intend to rebuild our public education system where we are currently falling short and expand on those things that we’re doing right.”
Inslee’s plan begins with two critical realities: first, a school system in which 1 in 5 of this year’s kindergartners will either not graduate or not graduate on time is not getting the job done; and second, there are innovative and effective ideas already in use that can be expanded statewide.
Inslee proposed an aggressive expansion of the successful “Innovative Schools” to create unique educational environments, public-private partnerships to expose students to real-world technology, and transitioning to online resources for curricula.
Inslee's plan also calls for better support for teachers and principals, and greater accountability as well. Under the Inslee plan, schools will establish mentorship and job-training programs so that experienced, master teachers are sharing their expertise with newer teachers or those who need help. Inslee also called for evaluation and accountability beyond the classroom, holding principals and superintendents responsible for overall performance in their schools.
Education leaders lauded Inslee’s plan.
“When it comes to educating our kids, Jay sets high standards at every level — from students and parents, teachers and principals to superintendents and school boards,” said Dr. Mary Alice Heuschel, Superintendent of Renton School District and 2011 Washington State Superintendent of the Year. “He understands we must all work together. As we have proven in the Renton School District, fostering a culture of high expectations and building effective partnerships can help us achieve results for every student. Jay's vision for our state's education system will help us get there."
“This is a plan based on high expectations. It’s a plan based on data and evidence of what works, not on ideology. And it’s a plan that is realistic based on today’s economic conditions,” Inslee said. “This is about focusing on the outcomes we want for our students and our state.”
See the complete plan online athttp://www.jayinslee.com/priorities/education-plan.

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