Legislature Cuts

Dear Parents,

The 3rd round of cuts to K-12 Education are being made and it’s ugly. Retroactive cuts to K-4 enhancements and cuts to levy equalization are on the table. Right now it looks like K-4 enhancements will go. This doesn’t mean programs will be cut this year (districts have to honor contracts and won’t do mid-year layoffs), just that the state won’t be sending along the money that districts were told they were getting. This will put districts into financially vulnerable position going into the next 2-year budget cycle. WSPTA testified against retroactive cuts and the ability for districts to absorb the costs. 
 
MANY OF THESE CUTS will be carried over to next biennium, so it is vital you communicate with your legislator and let them know your priorities.

When emailing your legislator ask them to:
-Use caution on retroactive cuts;

-Going forward, fund 2776 in next biennium (this would initiate a new program for basic education)

-Take measures to curb need for remediation. WSPTA's testimony has been encouraging K-readiness assessments (includes the literacy assessment we want); evaluation pilots (teacher quality); education ombudsman (help for families negotiating system and resolving serious conflict; promoting better district practices.)

Queen Anne and Magnolia residents (36th District): your legislators and email addresses are listed below:

Senator:
Jeanne Kohl-Welles
[email protected]


Representatives:
Reuven Carlyle
[email protected]


Mary Lou Dickerson
[email protected]
 
If you live outside Queen Anne or Magnolia you can find your legislator here: http://www.leg.wa.gov/pages/home.aspx (click on the tab 'Find Your District')


If you have any questions, concerns or need assistance please contact our PTSA Legislative Chair, Jenice Lee at [email protected]