2007-2008 WASHINGTON STATE PTA
SHORT-TERM LEGISLATIVE PLATFORM

The 2007-2008 WSPTA Legislative Platform as determined at the WSPTA Legislative Assembly, 
October 6, 2007 in SeaTac, WA

TOP FIVE PRIORITY ISSUES

1.  K-12 Education Funding - The Washington State PTA shall initiate and/or support legislation and/or policies that establish an updated definition of basic education and a basic education funding formula that reflects current education practices and requirements. The redefinition and funding formula must fulfill the State’s obligation to fully fund education as its paramount duty by providing ample opportunities for all students to achieve higher learning levels consistent with standards-based education reform. The funding system must ensure accountability by generating consistent and transparent accounting processes.

2.  Math & Science Education - The Washington State PTA shall initiate and/or support legislation and/or policies that strengthen science and math education in Washington State including but not limited to 1) enhanced pre-K through college education in mathematics and the sciences through a balanced instructional program to support students including but not limited to basic computational and procedural skills, algorithms, formulas and definitions, conceptual understanding, problem solving and scientific method; 2) advanced professional development and ongoing assistance for math and science teachers;  3) support of community involvement in the selection of math and science curricula; and 4) encouragement of family collaboration in teaching math and science.

3.  Quality Teaching - The Washington State PTA shall initiate and/or support legislation and/or policies that support quality teaching through 1) enhanced professional development for teachers; 2) ample resources for the retention and recruitment of the most proficient teachers; 3) assistance and collaboration through family and community involvement; and 4) reasonable and respectful evaluation and support strategies for teachers.

4.  Student Support Services - The Washington State PTA shall initiate and/or support legislation and/or policies that support student success in school by adequately funding K-12 school counselors, school librarians and school nurses.

5.  Special Education Funding - The Washington State PTA shall initiate and/or support legislation and/or policies that provide for full funding of the actual cost for all of the required services for special education services, as defined by individual education plans required under federal law.
OTHER SUPPORTED ISSUES
 Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate
Highly Capable Programs
School Recess
Funding Inequities
Children’s Health
De-Link WASL as Graduation Requirement
World Languages and International Competencies
School Construction and Renovation
Sex Offender Monitoring
School Traffic Safety
State Tax System
Washington State Assessment System
Comprehensive School Behavioral Systems
Conditional Scholarships
Assessments for English Language Learners
Simple Majority for School Bonds
WASL Appeals Process
Foster Youth Supports
Release of Student Information
Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect
Family Education Leave
Social Studies Education
DREAM ACT

For a complete list of issue rankings, including vote counts, click here.

For more information visit:
Washington State PTA Legislation Page