History

The Chief Education Officer (CEO) Network—a joint effort of Partnership for Learning, Washington Roundtable, Association of Washington School Principals, and Challenge Seattle—kicks off. The two-year CEO Network provides professional and leadership development for a cohort of high school principals from across Washington state, including individually matching each principal with a senior executive from Washington’s private sector for one-on-one discussions and support.

Partnership for Learning launches the Credential is Essential campaign to raise awareness about the value of post-high school credentials, such as degrees, apprenticeships, and certificates.

Washington State Legislature adopts a funding plan to address the state Supreme Court’s 2012 McCleary decision, requiring ample funding for public education. PFL supports the proposal, which directs more resources to students most in need.

PFL, in tandem with the Washington Roundtable, releases two reports making the case to prepare Washington kids for the 740,000 jobs openings coming to our state over the next five years.

With support from PFL and a broad range of stakeholders, the Legislature adopts the Early Start Act, which sets quality standards and provides for expansion of early learning programs.

Legislature approves the 24-credit college and career ready diploma, which more closely aligns Washington state’s graduation requirements with college entrance requirements.

Washington becomes the 8th state to adopt the new Next Generation Science Standards, which outline key scientific concepts and practices that students should master. Washington was a lead state in developing the new standards.

PFL, in partnership with the state Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction, launches the Ready Washington coalition to help build public awareness, understanding, and support for Washington state’s learning standards in English Language Arts and math to ensure students gain skills and knowledge they need for education, training, and jobs after high school.

Washington voters authorize 40 charter schools to open over five years. PFL helps to create the nonprofit Washington State Charter School Association.

PFL helps launch Washington STEM, a nonprofit organization to increase student interest and achievement in science, technology, engineering, and math.

Washington begins adopting new learning standards in English language arts and math.

PFL teams up with other education organizations to create Excellent Schools Now, a statewide coalition to accelerate college and career readiness for all students, especially those who are systematically underserved.

PFL releases a study, “Improving the Odds: Preparing Washington Students for Family Wage Jobs,” making the case that Washington students increasingly need a credential after high school to take advantage of the job opportunities being created in our state.

The state Legislature directs the State Board of Education to review the purpose and expectations of high school graduation. PFL and its partners encourage the board to define the diploma in terms of college and career readiness.

The state Legislature declares that, starting with the class of 2008, students need to pass the state reading and math exams. PFL teams up with the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction on a statewide communications campaign to explain the new requirement.

PFL launches under the leadership of business and government stakeholders who recognized the need for community support and engagement to raise expectations for all students.

The Legislature passes historic education improvement legislation, including a comprehensive, statewide student assessment system.