Auburn School District No. 408
915 4th Street Northeast, Auburn, WA  98002

10/15/04

NEWS RELEASE
ASD Directors' Positions on
Two Education Ballot Issues

At the Monday, October 11, Auburn School District board of directors meeting, resolutions were unanimously adopted by the directors regarding two education measures that will appear on the Tuesday, November 2 General Election ballot:

Resolution No.1051 opposes Referendum 55.  Referendum 55 is a measure to give voters the final say regarding a law, which was approved by the state legislature last year, allowing charter schools in Washington State.  If approved, R-55 would allow up to 45 charter schools to open during the next six years operating with public dollars, but under private charters.  Rejection of or voting “no” on R-55 voids the previously adopted legislation and prevents it from going into effect.  The Auburn School Board of Directors oppose R-55 because charter schools spend local taxpayers dollars, yet operate without local school board oversight.

Resolution No.1052 supports Initiative 884.  I-884 is a measure proposed by the League of Education Voters (LEA) to raise more than $1 billion per year specifically earmarked for education in Washington State.  I-884 would strengthen the education that students receive because it reduces class sizes; creates extended learning opportunities for students; provides early learning opportunities; offers advanced classes such as advanced placement (AP) courses; and provides money to let 25,000 more students attend college.  If approved, I-884 would be funded by a one-penny per dollar increase in the state retail sales tax.

For more information, contact Superintendent Linda Cowan at (253)931-4914.