Equity, student safety top WEA’s 2020 legislative priorities; Lobby Day Jan. 20

The WEA Board of Directors recently approved WEA’s 2020 Legislative Priorities.

Combating racism, promoting equity and eliminating discrimination are among WEA’s priorities in Olympia.

“Our legislative agenda is focused on providing the funding and support students need to be successful, including attracting and keep qualified educators,” said Larry Delaney, WEA president. “This year, we are emphasizing the need for WEA members to promote equity, combat racism and eliminate discrimination in addition to our ongoing work to address student and school safety.”

Building stronger relationships among students, families and educators is another WEA priority. That includes reducing class sizes, hiring additional support staff and fully funding special education.

The short, 60-day supplemental budget legislative session begins Jan. 13 and ends March 12. The annual WEA Lobby Day in Olympia is scheduled for Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Jan. 20. RSVP on Facebook.

“When it comes to making a difference in the lives of our students, we can’t rely on others to do this work,” Delaney said. “WEA members know that when we stand united together, we can win big victories we couldn’t achieve alone.”