Issue Position: Fully Funding Basic Education

Issue Position

Our state constitution makes it abundantly clear that the paramount duty of the State of Washington is fully funding our public schools. This obligation has grown more serious as the global economy has compelled us to reach higher. An 8th grade education was the standard 100 years ago. Even a few decades ago you could find solid work in manufacturing, agriculture, and a host of other career fields with a high school diploma. The data is very clear that our students need to be prepared for education beyond high school with 70% of jobs requiring more than a high school diploma but less than a baccalaureate degree. I am prepared to work as hard as it takes to ensure all of our kids have affordable access to community colleges, universities, technical colleges, apprenticeships, military service, or a host of on-the-job training opportunities. We don't need every student in a one size fits all pathway, but we do need every student to find their passion and to be prepared to pursue education and training beyond high school.

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