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Governor names ESD 105 superintendent to Quality Education Council

ESD 105 Superintendent Jane Gutting has taken on additional duties this fall as Governor Christine Gregoire’s representative on the state's new Quality Education Council.  
        
      The council was created this past legislative session through House Bill 2261 and is designed to develop strategic recommendations to implement a new definition of basic education and provisions for its funding.  Recommendations of the council will be used by the governor and Legislature to identify measurable goals and priorities for Washington’s K-12 education system for a 10-year period. 

      “Jane brings a unique background and level of experience that makes her a perfect fit for this council,” said Gregoire, who appointed the ESD 105 superintendent on Aug. 4. “We need someone who will ensure that the measures this council puts in place will work and succeed. Our children are counting on it. Jane’s drive for success is apparent. I am counting on Jane to bring all of her expertise and knowledge to this council, and drive strategies to best serve our kids.”

      The group’s recommendations will include a timeline to phase in changes to instructional programs and funding formulas, as well as a new student transportation formula. The council will also study how to establish a statewide teacher mentoring and support system, as well as an early learning program for at-risk children.

      The council’s first report – expected by January 1 – will include recommendations for resolving issues or decisions about K-12 education that will require legislative action during the 2010 legislative session.      
      Said Gutting:  “It’s time to take the next steps to ensure that basic education in the State of Washington is the best it can be for kids, families, and communities. I look forward to the challenge of creating recommendations based on evidence that the programs effectively support student learning.”

      In addition to Gutting, the Quality Education Council includes legislators, as well as representatives from the State Board of Education, the Superintendent of Public Instruction, the Professional Educator Standards Board and the Department of Early Learning.

~David Goehner, ESD 105 Public Information Officer