A Strong Start for AB 46

To say we are off to a fast start is a great understatement. Last week was a very active week, led by the first hearing of our bill, AB 46, that would secure additional funding for capital projects. It was an incredibly proud moment when a bi-partisan panel of the Northern Nevada legislative leaders sat next to each other, supporting the bill and asking their colleagues for their support. Our community also came out to support us a big way. Supporters of the bill filled the room in a show of support from business, labor, education, real estate, economic development and professionals from many fields. It was the first step in a long process, but it was a great kickoff on this piece of legislation.  Additional discussion about a proposed amendment to the bill will take place at the Board of Trustees meeting on Tuesday, February 26th at 3 p.m.

We also participated in a discussion that outlined the significant budget shortfalls that we have endured the past five years. It was a sobering hearing and I believe it gave the new legislators much needed history on the budget statewide since the recession began.

The week of February 25 proves to be another important week with four important pieces of legislation being heard in joint meetings of Assembly and Senate Education committees. There will be an important emphasis on early childhood education including hearings on Monday about a proposal to provide mandatory, full day kindergarten for all children in the state as well as a proposal for pre-K programs at all of our at-risk schools. Wednesday will offer a chance to discuss the a proposal of class size reduction funding as well as a proposal to limit social promotion by enhancing early identification and intervention efforts.

The hallways at the legislative building are full of both philosophical and practical discussion about the needs of our education system, and I believe we will have ample opportunity to weigh with the needs and values of the Washoe County School District.