County Democrats arrange for additional meeting time to address school funding

May 5 Candidates Forum time moved up to address school funding issues at 4:30 - 5:20 p.m.

In response to an outpouring of public interest regarding the State’s public school funding mechanisms, the County Democrats have added an additional hour to their candidates’ forum to specifically allow time to address and question elected State legislators regarding the issue.

The added time is from 4:30-5:20 pm, at West Sound Community Hall on Monday, May 5. Later, from 5:30-7:30, the forum is designed to allow for questions on a broad range of topics–including school funding. Current legislators may also be available for sidebar discussions at that time.

Rena Patty of the San Juan County Democrats arranged for the additional Q & A time and sent a direct invitation to attend to the PTSA, which follows.

Barb Skotte, President of the PTSA, said in an email to PTSA members, “Please be aware that the PTSA is very mindful that we are not a partisan organization. By suggesting that you may wish to attend this forum to express your concerns, we are in no way endorsing any one party (or candidate). The fact of the matter is, this forum allows us a unique opportunity to visit with our entire current legislative delegation at one time–as well as with many of the candidates to succeed Sen. Spanel.”

Patty’s letter to the PTSA is as follows:

“Dear PTSA friends and neighbors,

This is such an important issue – we’ve scheduled additional time specifically to focus on your concerns about school funding!

Monday, May 5, Westsound Community Club, 4:30-5:20 pm – Representatives Dave Quall and Jeff Morris will be available to discuss public school funding. Senator Harriet Spanel will be joining us by 5 pm. Please bring your concerns and questions!

40th Legislative District Candidates’ Forum, 5:30-7:30 pm – Democratic Party candidates for State Senate will be invited to introduce themselves and their qualifications for the position of State Senator. Candidate introductions will be followed by time for questions hopefully on a full range of issues important to the citizens of WA State, including the state school budget. We hope you can to stay to meet the candidates.”

Rena Patty

SJC Democrats, Orcas 3 PCO &

State Committeewoman