Colfax School Board signs in support for lawsuit against state

The Colfax School Board Monday night decided to sign a resolution in support of a lawsuit against the state of Washington based on education funding. They would not, though, commit funds.

The Network for Excellence in Washington Schools, a group of schools and education organizations, sued the state last year, claiming it was not living up to the constitutional mandate that public education funding be paramount among state spending.

“That’s the whole point of the suit,” said Colfax Supt. Michael Morgan. “To make the state make education funding its paramount priority.”

The group won a ruling in King County Superior Court. It was confirmed by the appeals court and is now headed for a hearing before the state Supreme Court.

The network asked the Colfax School District for a support resolution and for financing support.

“I agree to the premise of the suit,” said Board Member Robert Smith. “But I’m definitely not in favor of throwing any money at it.”

Morgan said the network requested Colfax provide $1,500.

Board Chair Brian Becker said he viewed the lawsuit as misguided, noting the state’s projected $5.7 billion shortfall for the next biennium.

“WSU just got slashed $7.5 million today,” said Becker. “I don’t know where they expect to get any money.”

Becker and board member Kathy Wride both offered up $10 from their own pockets.