Governor's budget goes beyond McCleary

WEA President Kim Mead issued this statement about Governor Inslee's proposed 2018 supplemental budget. Mead joined the Governor at his press conference where he unveiled his plan. 

“I’m glad to see that Governor Inslee has responded to the Court’s order, and to the students of our state, who deserve caring, qualified and committed educators teaching in their schools. This budget continues to demonstrate Governor Inslee’s leadership in funding public education for our state’s 1 million students.

"With this proposal, the Governor has not only set the stage, but delivered a strong message that it’s time to meet the paramount duty for our students and our future. The educators of Washington state are united with the Governor in the belief that each and every child, regardless of their background, deserves an amply funded, high quality public education. I look forward to the legislature following suit when it convenes in January.”

Governor Inslee's 2018 budget proposal included a few holiday gifts for students and educators.

• Responding to the state Supreme Court’s recent McCleary order, the Governor proposes nearly $1 billion in new money for educator salaries for the 2018-19 school year so educators can make better progress sooner toward earning a professional, competitive wage.
• His proposal re-asserts local flexibility for districts to negotiate those funds with local unions by eliminating the cost-of-living and average salary restrictions imposed on bargaining by the legislature last year. 
• Keeping I-1351 alive, his budget includes funding to add guidance counselors so students have the support they need to navigate their plans for high school and beyond. 
• Plan 1 retired educators, who haven't had a cost of living adjustment since 2010, will see some much needed relief for the first time since the financial crisis.
• Bilingual high school students have new options for entering educator prep programs, where they will receive support and mentoring.

The Governor’s budget release is the first step in the process, and is often the high water mark. Once the legislature convenes in January, both the House and Senate will develop budgets which they will then negotiate to come up with a final budget. 

As union members and educators, WEA members are united in our advocacy for our students, our public schools and our profession. Read about our Unity Agenda for the 2018 legislative session.