“State funding is not ample, it is not stable and it is not dependable….the State is directed to determine the cost of amply providing for basic education and a basic program of education for all children resident in the state of Wa. The State must also comply with the Constitutional mandate to provide stable and [...]
FYI For Your Information
Valuable information for WSSEC the membership and community members at large.
Friends of NEWS – Support Excellence in Washington Schools
Official membership in Network for Excellence in Washington Schools (NEWS) is open to school districts, local education organizations and community groups who share our belief that the State must live up to its constitutional paramount duty to amply fund our K-12 public schools. Individuals or families who support our cause are welcome to become Friends [...]
Washington State Court of Appeals affirms ruling in Special Education funding case
“…documents are incomplete because they do not adequately take into account the BEA or excess cost allocation model and, as a result, substantial evidence supports the trial court’s findings that the evidence does not demonstrate underfunding.”
“…the Alliance has not met its burden to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the special education funding process the [...]
Special Ed Lawsuit Decision
At the end of the trial, it seems evident that the alleged shortfall in the special education appropriation, if it is found to exist at all, is the product of an inadequate BEA, not an inadequate excess cost multiplier.
Basic Education Lawsuit Filed to Improve Education Funding for All
WSSEC serves on the executive committee for N.E.W.S., a broad based coalition of community organizations and schools. WSSEC has actively argued for improved funding for ALL students for many years.
Position Paper on Charter Schools
The Washington State Special Education Coalition continues to seek ways to inform and educate school boards, principals, teachers, families and policy makers about the broad flexibility which already exists in statute for boards to organize their district and schools for the most effective means of educating students – those with special needs, as well as those without.
Position Paper on Special Education Funding & Accounting
The Washington State Special Education Coalition believes that all tax payers and supporters of public schools should understand how funding for special education students works. Only a consistent accounting system can accomplish this.
Position on Inclusive Education & LRE
The Washington State Special Education Coalition (WSSEC) believes that P.L.101-476 (IDEA) is clear and instructive regarding the placement and educational opportunities for special education students. It guarantees a free and appropriate education in the least restrictive environment (LRE)
Position Paper on Paperwork
The Washington State Special Education Coalition is deeply concerned at the increase in paperwork required at the local district level. Both parents and teachers of special education students feel that the State Forms, developed by OSPI can provide the needed protections of individual students rights, and at the same time provide for appropriate accountability.
Response Regarding Staff Performance Bonus
The Washington State Special Education Coalition is concerned about the recruitment and retention of qualified and caring individuals in the field of education in general, and Special Education, specifically.
Position Paper on Safety & Discipline
The Washington State Special Education Coalition supports the use of interim alternative placements for ANY student who carries a weapon, or in well documented situations where a student can be determined to be a significant danger to themselves or others.
Children’s Alliance Advocacy Camp
Advocacy Camp is open to any adult in Washington who wants to create change in their community, improve the lives of children and families, and sharpen or learn new advocacy skills. Scholarships are available. Depending on available resources, child care and transportation assistance will also be available. Applications are due September 20th, but acceptances will [...]
WASL Myths vs. Facts
WASL Myths vs. Facts (PDF)
WSSEC Public Policy Chair Comments on Special Ed Funding & Current Trial
This letter was sent to the WSSEC listserve on October 31, 2006 in order to update our readers about the trial related to the lawsuit, that blames special ed students for an overall shortfall in education funding. The WSSEC believes the true shortfall is in the underfunding of the BEA (Basic Ed Allocation) with WA state ranking 42nd in the nation.
Review of Washington Learns Special Education Funding Proposals
Review of Washington Learns Special Education Funding Proposals
WSSEC Memorandum to Governor Gregoire and Washington Learns Members
We support the Picus & Odden report. In order for the system to be accountable to the students, and follow our constitutional duty, we must fully fund basic education for all. Currently, basic education is severely underfunded.
WSSEC Comments on Autism Task Force Draft Recommendations
Public comments and testimony on September 7, 2006.
Governor Appoints First Education Ombudsman
“The 2006 Legislature authorized the creation of the Office of Education Ombudsman within the Office of the Governor to assist parents and community members with issues related to public K-12 education.”
WSSEC Letter to Gov. Gregoire and WA Learns Members
Response to WA Learns Meetings of July 2006
Diana Stadden Comments to Governor on Special Ed Funding & Other Important Topics
Diana Stadden, of the Pierce County Parent Coalition, gave excellent testimony to Governor Gregoire at the Puyallup Town Hall meeting on 7/27/06. – Thanks, Diana! Great comments!