OLYMPIA — The Washington Senate is moving ahead with a plan that could lead to the shutdown of the state’s worst schools.
A bill approved Thursday would give schools money and time to turn around their performance. If schools fail to improve, the state Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction would come in to try and turn around the school. The school could ultimately be shuttered if it doesn’t improve.
Sen. Steve Litzow, R-Mercer Island, said the state needs to intervene in schools that keep falling short. Sen. Rosemary McAuliffe, D-Bothell, said she opposed the plan because it takes away control from local school boards. She also said there are many low-performing schools in the state and that lawmakers can best help by providing more resources.
The measure passed by a 30-19 margin and now goes to the state House.
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