Hello Readers,

Scott Oki, the former Microsoftie who ran their International Division, who has been known in recent years for his philanthropic and golf interests, just published a book through the Washington Policy Center called "Outrageous Learning", his effort at pointing out the major problems in K-12 education and suggesting solutions to those problems.

The Washington Policy Center (WPC) is hosting a free reception June 16 to officially release the book.  You can sign up on their website here:  http://www.washingtonpolicy.org/.  Click on the events tab and follow the links to register.

A number of Oki's recommendations are embodied in House Bill 2261, the basic education reform bill passed by the legislature and signed by Gov. Gregoire in May.  WTIA supported this legislation that makes major changes and recommits the state to its paramount duty under the state Constitution to provide a "basic education" to all children in the state, no matter their background or socioeconomic status.

Accomplishing this will require new ways of thinking, better execution, better trained teachers, more "hands on" learning by students and a large, ongoing financial commitment in the state budget to ensure that our students achieve high standards and graduate with a meaningful high school diploma.

One big problem that we have seen played out recently in school districts that are cutting their budgets is how teachers are hired and fired.  In many, if not all cases, teachers were kept based purely on seniority.  The younger teachers, many of whom can relate better to the students and who understand technology better, were the first to go while more senior teachers, many of whom are simply marking time to retirement,  kept their jobs.  This is inexcusable.  But, this is the result of an overly powerful teachers union.  The WEA and its local affiliates are one of the biggest roadblocks to true education reform.  This must change.  All too often unions resist any kind of reform but constantly carp about money.  Maybe if Washington's students performed better on the WASL and more were college or work ready, they would have a case.

We can no longer tolerate academic underachievement.  Our future depends on a more educated and technically trained citizenry to be the next generation of technology entrepreneurs.  If you care about improving the state's education system, check out the June 16 event and contact WTIA to become part of our advocacy network.  Thanks and have a great weekend.