November 2006

Washington State doctors Jill Sells, Francie Chalmers, Phyllis Cavens, and Michelle Terry attended Governor Gregoire's Early Learning Summit

Governor's Early Learning Summit: In mid-November state and local early learning efforts came together, following the release of the Washington Learns report.  The Governor’s Summit was intended to (1) Increase coordination around early learning initiatives; (2) Enhance collaborations between public and private sectors, and (3) Improve state-local communication. More.....

Governor Gregoire and Washington Learns release final report: At a press conference, the governor released a final report with strategies and recommendations for a ten-year plan to create a world-class, learner-focused, seamless education system for Washington.  You can find the report at www.WashingtonLearns.wa.gov.

The final report, which is based on public input from nine communities and a telephone survey of 600 citizens statewide, focuses on five major initiatives: the early learning years, math and science, personalized learning, college and workforce training, and accountability. Washington Learns recommends an investment in early learning so that children start off as lifelong learners; improvement in math and science teaching and learning so that citizens have a competitive edge; personalization of learning so that every student has the opportunity to succeed; and the option of college and workforce training for everyone.

Article, coauthored by Lorrie Grevstad and Dr. Sells, featured in the national publication of the Grantmakers for Children, Youth and Families (GCYF) association.
“Understanding the Opportunities, Benefits, and Realities of Public and Private Partnerships: The Washington State Early Childhood Comprehensive System’s Experience,” (Insight, Fall 2006)