OLYMPIA, Wash. — Governor Bob Ferguson says he is looking forward to a change in Washington schools now that Superintendent of Public Instruction Chris Reykdal announced he is not running for re-election.
“I appreciate his service, but it’s time for a chance,” Ferguson said in a video posted to social media. “It’s really past due for a change.”
Reykdal has served three terms in his position. He announced Monday he will not be seeing a fourth term.
“Public institutions are strengthened when leadership changes, new voices emerge, and those entrusted with public office understand that the position belongs to the people, not to the person holding it,” Reykdal said in a written statement.
Ferguson says this change in leadership will hopefully benefit Washington students statewide.
“Test scores for students are just really mediocre and Washington is not mediocre. It’s just not been good enough despite the best efforts of our educators all across the state,” Ferguson said.
“I am profoundly grateful to the people of Washington for the trust they have placed in me,” Reykdal said. “Public service is a privilege, never an entitlement, and I intend to serve the next two years with all of the hard work, passion, and conviction that I first promised voters in 2016.”
Voters will vote on the next superintendent of public instruction in 2028, when Reykdal’s current term expires.
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