News Releases
Office of Governor Gary Locke
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - February 7, 2001
Contact:  Governor's Communications Office, 360-902-4136

Locke, Bergeson and legislators propose bipartisan package for education reform

OLYMPIA - Gov. Gary Locke, State Superintendent of Public Instruction Terry Bergeson and a bipartisan group of legislative leaders today announced a package that will transform the education system in Washington state.

"The mission is that each child will achieve high academic standards," Locke said. "We've got to focus on four fundamentals to get there."

Those fundamentals include:

Personalized attention to individual students in safe schools so all students can succeed

Outstanding teachers in every classroom

Outstanding principals in every school

Flexibility and accountability, so schools can innovate to improve student achievement.

Locke and Bergeson emphasized the importance of two demonstration projects. One would change the way teachers are paid. Selected school districts would be given resources and assistance to help develop a new pay system based on teacher performance, skills and knowledge. The other allows certain districts to grant waivers from most state school regulations.

"This legislation would take the crucial first steps by freeing schools of the current bureaucracy that stifles creative teaching and learning in so many of our schools," Bergeson said. "It provides the flexibility so many of our schools are requesting, but have not yet received."

"This is the next logical step in education reform that began nearly a decade ago," said state Rep. Kathy Haigh (D-Shelton). "This bill is about giving schools the room they need, the freedom to succeed."

"With the current teacher shortage, alternative certification is more important than ever before," said state Sen. Bill Finkbeiner (R-Kirkland). "We've got to diversify the talent pool and allow the best and brightest to teach their craft."

Locke also proposed alternative certification, so top professionals can take their experience into the classroom.

"With the severe shortage of teachers across our state today, it is imperative we find ways to get qualified, motivated people into the classroom as quickly as possible without compromising high standards in the teaching profession," added state Sen. Tracey Eide (D-Federal Way).

Locke also proposed rehiring dedicated teachers after they retire.

"Right now, teachers who have earned their pensions are moving to Oregon in order to collect their benefits and continue working," said state Rep. Gigi Talcott (R-Tacoma). "It's time we work together to support our teachers here in Washington, protect their benefits, and guarantee every child learns from an effective educator."
Related Links:
- Achieving the Vision for High Performing Schools


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