I agree that we have a broken education system throughout our state, largely due to issues regarding funding at the state level. In order to counter balance this lack of funding and inequity from the state, we need to better engage all parties and stay at it, until together we discover better local solutions. To remain in this perpetual debate over perspective and consider outdated solutions is a disservice to the community. It’s time we throw out the ineffective hand of the past and promise to take the path that provides a safety net for our children.

A work stoppage in our schools hurts kids and any implied gain does not counter balance that. There are over 26,000 families in the Kent School District whose lives will be directly impacted. Striking sends the message, “Our issues are so big, and unresolvable in any other manner, that we would risk negatively impacting the lives of these 26,000 Kent Students and their families to reach our goals.”

I say this to both the district and the union – our students and community members deserve a timely and effective resolution to this conflict. There are other ways, they may require more effort, time and resources but I believe your cause will be better supported and your goals more satisfying, when achieved.

All parties in Kent should take this opportunity to show innovative leadership, embracing ideas that can help all our students achieve their full potential. Money isn’t the only solution, (nor is it the only problem) in fact now is the best time to model effective, cost saving solutions that are sustainable.

We need to provide our teachers with the resources, time and support they need to be effective; we need to encourage our parents to interact with those teachers and understand the best ways to support students; we need efficient leadership that is equitable and accountable to the goals of our district, while maintaining fiscal responsibility.

We need Washington state to fully fund our schools.

I don’t know how much value I can offer all sides as a parent, but I will do my best to listen openly and commit to supporting all of you, encouraging you to find the solutions that best serve student needs. I promise to continue to take an active role in my own children’s education, have them ready to learn and excited to start the school year on Aug. 31st.

I also encourage community members and other parents to share with us how you feel your kids will be impacted by decisions that are being made by the district and the Kent Education Association.

I also encourage everyone to find out more about how school funding works (or doesn’t work) in Washington state.

Brooke Valentine

Kent School District Parent.