Peninsula Daily News news sources
SEATTLE – A coalition of school districts and pro-education groups headed by Chimacum School District Superintendent Mike Blair will argue in King County Superior Court today that the state should change the way it funds schools.
The organization Blair heads, Network for Excellence in Washington Schools, wants a judge to declare that the state has failed to live up to the constitution, which defines education as the state’s paramount duty.
“The constitution says it is the paramount duty of the state – not just a duty or the second duty – but the duty,” Blair said.
“Which makes sense, because it is about the education of the young.”
The state will argue at the hearing scheduled before Superior Court Judge Paris K. Kallas that it has met the requirements stemming from a similar lawsuit 30 years ago and the court should not allow this case to derail Washington’s reform efforts.
“The other side wants to expand the constitutional obligations of the state, and we don’t think that’s appropriate,” Bill Clark, assistant state attorney general, said in a recent interview.
Blair disagrees.
“We’re saying that it is time. We agree there should be strong standards and we agree with getting all of our students to meet those demands.
“But we want them to look at what that costs and how to fund it appropriately.”
Blair added that he hopes that the solution is a long-term source of funding.
“We are also looking for stable funding,” he said.
“It is difficult to operate from year to year if you don’t know what will happen, if it is based on whether it is a good year or a bad year for the Legislature.”
The main point of the lawsuit, he said, is to let the children know they are supported.
“Our kids deserve to know they are supported,” he said.
“Schools are doing a great job.
“Our test scores continue to rise and there is a lot of hard work going on.
“But you look around and there are a lot of schools having to cut their budgets.
“Look at Port Angeles having to close down a school.
“It is tough on schools when the Legislature is not providing enough for the basic heat, light or transportation.
