The following statements were issued tonight from Superintendent Maria L. Goodloe-Johnson and Seattle
School Board Director Steve Sundquist, who is spokesperson for the School Board on labor negotiations.

“I am so pleased that SEA members have voted to approve a three-year contract for certificated staff,” said Dr. Goodloe-Johnson. “This historic agreement builds on a tradition of collaboration with our teachers and will further strengthen the excellent work of our educators and administrators to keep student learning as our central focus. I honor the dedication of our teachers, knowing they work each day to ensure that every student reaches their highest potential.”

School Board Director Steve Sundquist acknowledged the importance of the ratification vote tonight and said, “We all know the difference that teachers make in our children’s lives, and we are deeply grateful for their commitment that every child receives an excellent education in Seattle Public Schools. I want to personally thank our teachers and administrators for their ongoing collaboration that resulted in approval of an agreement that will make such a positive difference in the lives of our students and community. We all look forward to a great start to school on September 8th and an excellent year of learning ahead.”

Statement from Seattle School Board related to SEA Vote of No Confidence
“We are so pleased that SEA members have voted to approve a three-year contract for our educators,” said School Board Director Steve Sundquist, board spokesperson for labor negotiations. “SEA also approved a vote of no-confidence in the Superintendent. The School Board and the Superintendent have committed to an ambitious change agenda in pursuit of improved student achievement and closing the achievement gap in our community. In that process we have undergone substantial change. We recognize that change isn’t easy and the pace of change isn’t always agreed upon. As leaders, we remain committed to listening to the ideas and concerns of our families, staff, and communities, and then taking the actions that we believe are in the best interest of our students.”