Senate Votes to Keep Great Washington Teachers

[Elizabeth Pendleton]

Legislative Update: Big News for Education
Dear Friend, The Senate passed a bill today that moves forward not one, but TWO of our top priorities for 2011. Rep. Marcie Maxwell’s bill (HB1443) – which continues the implementation of the education reforms we have worked so hard for over the past few years - passed the Senate floor (30-17) with a new amendment by Sen. Rodney Tom which would end “last in first out” policies for teachers in our state. This is great progress for students in Washington state! Not only does this move help to ensure we stay the course on important initiatives like the teacher and principal evaluation pilot; it will also keep our great teachers where our students need them most – in our classrooms. Earlier this session, the Great Schools Bill did not make it out of committee, but Stand for Children did not give up.  Working closely with bi-partisan legislative allies we helped craft new legislation.  Stand was proud to be invited to the table and bring the voices of our members and supporters to Olympia.  You - the parents, teachers and community leaders from around the state who make up Stand for Children and who sent emails, wrote postcards, made calls and spoke out in committee hearings - your voice made a difference.  Your perseverance is making progress for Washington's students.  Also, a special thank you to everyone who voted in support of this bill and Sen. Hobbs, Sen. Litzow, Sen. Tom, and Sen. Zarelli for making sure this important legislation stayed at the forefront and was brought to a vote. On behalf of parents, teachers, community members and especially students all across Washington – we thank you for taking a stand for students. Let’s keep the momentum going and get this bill through the House of Representatives and to the Governor’s desk. Sincerely, Shannon Campion Executive Director, Stand for Children    “In passing a bill of this magnitude, the Senate will show voters that those we have elected are in favor of what we desire for students.” - Reverend Don Davis, April 6 Senate Ways and Means Hearing   What to spread the word? Visit us on Facebook and suggest us to your friends.