What can other states learn from our early learning successes?

Rep. Ruth Kagi D-32

Earlier this week, Representative Ruth Kagi (D-32) presented at a National Governors Association meeting in Seattle on creating and implementing an early learning agenda.

The National Governors Association brought leaders from 12 states to learn from Washington’s success in developing and implementing science-informed policies and strategies to get better results for children.

What happens to major policy initiatives when governors, legislative leaders and agency directors change?

When it seems like so much of our national and state policies depend on who is in office at any given time, how can we make sure that policies to help future generations will be implemented and sustained?

One of the panels that Rep. Kagi participated in specifically addressed how to sustain policy objectives and research-based methods through transitions in the governor’s office, the legislature and the agencies responsible for implementing these policies.

“By using research to shape our policies, especially our policies aimed at giving young children a strong start, we are building a strong, bi-partisan foundation that will not be thrown out each time a new person steps into a leadership role,” said Kagi. 

“Washington State has built understanding and support for high quality early learning based on the science of early brain development and research on what is effective. This decade long process culminated in the passage of Early Start this session which commits the state to supporting and rewarding high quality pre-school and child care in Washington.”

 The 32nd legislative district includes all of Shoreline, part of north Seattle, and extends into Snohomish county.