VANCOUVER, Wash. – The State Board of Education, in its bimonthly meeting occurring this November 12-13 at the Heathman Lodge, will consider a proposal to help Washington state’s most challenged schools.

The proposal includes an option of state intervention, a dramatic change from current education practice. For now, challenged schools may volunteer for state assistance and support programs, but they are not required to do so.

The report, available at the State Board of Education website (www.sbe.wa.gov), cites new legislation (for consideration in the 2010 legislative session) that would allow the state to partner with local districts to address schools that are chronically underperforming. The report urges immediate action, insisting on shared accountability in providing "each of our children [with] the opportunity to thrive and reach his or her full potential. . .No child’s education should hold them hostage from a bright future.”

The proposal aligns with recent federal guidelines for school improvement, including the Obama Administration’s $5 billion dollar Race to the Top grant.

Other agenda items for the two day meeting include a presentation by Vancouver School District Administrators on their use of data to impact student learning, as well as a presentation by Dr. Jennifer Shaw (principal of Franklin Pierce High School) and Dr. Mark Mansell (Superintendent of the La Center School District) on statewide strategies for implementing a meaningful high school diploma that prepares students for 21st century challenges (CORE 24, or the 24 credit graduation requirement).

The meeting agenda and materials are now available at: sbe.wa.gov/materials.

Time for public comment will be provided. The public and news media are invited to attend.

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Contact: Edie Harding, Executive Director

About the State Board of Education: The State Board of Education provides advocacy and strategic oversight of public education. The board is comprised of 16 members: five are elected by school board directors, seven are appointed by the Governor, two serve as student representatives, and one serves as a private school representative. The Superintendent of Public Instruction is also a member.

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