PLATFORM
A Practical and Sustainable Vision for Seattle Public Schools . . .
School Directors are elected by popular vote to represent their constituents. I believe that good government is accessible, transparent and open. A qualified public servant is a good listener, is constantly learning, is available to the public and above all is honest. This is the standard to which I will hold myself.
My deepest concern is with Seattle Public Schools drop-out rate. We currently graduate only 50% of our students. This is unacceptable. My research leads me conclude that there are a pair of solutions. Solutions which will not only steadily raise the graduation rates but also have other positive effects. These solutions better manage community resources, improve city pride in our schools and, maybe most importantly, help to recruit and retain the very best educators.
First, we need a sea-change in the culture of our school system. We must strive to recognize educators as the qualified professionals that they are. We must ensure that our educators have what they need to do their job right. Teachers are asking for a better work environment, time to teach, classroom resources. We can provide these things. It is vital, because the teacher-student connection is the number one factor in student engagement. If students are engaged, they stay in school.
Second, we must find an alternative to school closures. Our beautiful school buildings were built to be the gems of the neighborhoods in which they are sited. These buildings are public assets and can become the centers of our communities. Creative sharing of our facilities will enrich the life of the school and the neighborhood. We will create a space that better serves the families while raising operating revenue and cutting overhead costs. That said, I need to make clear that I do not believe in charter schools or the privatization of any aspect of our schools. Additionally, the Principal of the school must be the final authority concerning school building use. This shared building solution is tried and proven in other urban school districts.
Two solutions, practical and proven. Once they are fully implemented, our schools will once again be the center of their neighborhood, enriching the lives and learning of the entire community. You can count on me to put these proven, practical ideas to work. Vote for me and together, we'll bring a progressive, sustainable vision into reality.
Lisa Stuebing
Candidate, Seattle School Director, Pos. 2
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