ISSUES

Quality Schools

Article IX Section I of the state Constitution states, "It is the paramount duty of the state to make ample provision for the education of all children residing within its borders ... "
 
The legislature must commit to fully funding education through regular and dependable sources, and cannot rely on local excess levies for that funding.  In order to accomplish this, the legislature must first redefine basic education and reevaluate our state funding formulas. We cannot allow the shortfalls that have plagued our schools this last year last to happen again.  In order to fully-fund education the legislature must (a) make it a top priority and (b) work with superintendents, principles, teachers and school board members to implement a multi-year plan for full funding. In Olympia, Kevin will work to fully-fund early, K-12, and higher education, assuring that all of us—from kids to workers in career transition have access to the skills needed to succeed.  This is one of Kevin’s top priorities.
  
Kevin lived on Orcas Island as a child with his grandmother who was the kindergarten teacher on Orcas for decades and a lifelong educator.  Also, in his first career, Kevin worked as a counselor with high school and middle school students. Kevin worked with high-risk youth and prevention programs in inner-city and rural schools. Through his experience, he has seen firsthand the impact good teachers and quality, caring schools have on the lives of our kids.

Education is often talked about as an economic burden that we provide at great cost to ourselves. However, a strong education system is the foundation of a strong economy, and in order for us to remain competitive in a growing global marketplace we will have to remain committed to a strong public school system. Every dollar we invest in education—particularly early childhood education—pays enormous dividends down the road.

"There are few issues that better define our communities and makes our region of the state such an enviable place to live than having good schools that attract jobs and families."
- Kevin Ranker

Kevin and King County Executive Ron Simms