Gov. Jay Inslee appointed state Rep. Ross Hunter as director of the Department of Early Learning on Aug. 31, saying the veteran lawmaker and former Microsoft executive has a strong mix of skills and passion for the job.
Hunter (D-48th District) replaces Dr. Bette Hyde, who announced her retirement in March after six years leading the department. Hunter will start Sept. 8.
According to King County Elections Communications Manager Kim van Ekstrom, the Democratic Party can nominate three people to fill Hunter’s seat for the remainder of his term through the end of 2016. The King County Council has 60 days starting Sept. 8 to fill the spot with a majority vote. If they don’t fill it by then, Gov. Inslee will appoint a replacement within 30 days.
The 48th District Democrats website states that its board is working with King County Democrats to plan a special election at its regularly scheduled meeting on Sept. 16.
“With landmark investments this year, Washington state is poised to be a world leader in early learning. Ross will ensure that those investments bring returns for our children, making sure every family has access to quality early learning opportunities,” Inslee said.
Added Hunter: “The opportunity to improve outcomes for hundreds of thousands of at-risk children is incredibly compelling. I cannot wait to get started. My first task is to get to know the department’s dedicated staff and connect with the dedicated and passionate stakeholders who have done so much to bring world-class early learning to Washington children.”
Hunter said it was a difficult decision to leave the Legislature after 13 years. But he said he was drawn by the opportunity to help build on earlier successes at the Department of Early Learning, which under the state’s new two-year budget received an additional $137 million in total funds.
The job will pay $150,000 annually.
Sen. Andy Hill (R-45th District) wished his budget-writing counterpart well.
“Having spent countless hours working with Representative Hunter I’m pleased he’ll be leading Washington’s early learning efforts given the important role in our overall education system,” said Hill, of Redmond, who serves as chief budget writer in the Senate. “This session the Legislature made historic investments in early childhood education for the next two years. With Ross’ passion and experience in policy and legislating, I’m confident the new funding and improvements will be in good hands.”
In the 2015-17 state budget the Legislature added $159 million for early learning and care, which included a 1,600 child expansion of the state’s Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program. New legislation implementing the Early Start Act aimed at improving and investing in high quality programs was also approved during the 2015 session.
“I’d like to thank Ross for his longtime service and dedication, wish him well in his new role and look forward to continue working with him on these important issues that impact all Washington children,” said Hill.
