New research released by Washington Policy Center, a non-partisan public policy research think tank based in Seattle, provides key facts for the Monroe School District. Education budgets in Washington State are at historic highs, reaching $10,200 per student statewide. Average teacher pay including benefits is $87,834 for a ten-month work year. 24 Monroe public school employees receive more than $100,000 a year.

Yet, because of restrictive work rules and multi-layered bureaucracy, only 59 cents of every education dollar reaches the classroom and public school students continue to lag in academic achievement. The research shows that more money won’t help public schools, and that policymakers can improve student learning with existing funding. Practical ideas for reform are available in the Center’s study, Eight Practical Ways to Reverse the Decline of Public Schools.

1.Schools and Students

• Number of students: 7,422
• Number of schools: 13

2. School Staffing;

• Number of employees: 592
• Number of full-time classroom teachers: 264
• Number of students per employee: 13
• Share of employees who are classroom teachers: 44%

3. Education Spending, Budgeted 2010-11

• Total: $73.6 million
• Total per-student spending: $9,925
• Operations: $66.3 million
• Per-student spending, operations only: $8,946
• Average teacher pay with all benefits: $87, 834
• Average administrator pay with all benefits: $131,292
• Number of employees paid over $100,000 a year: 24
• Estimated education funds paid as annual dues to teachers’ union: $250,000

4. Student Learning (students in Washington are entitled to 180 days of class time).

• Number of full class days provided by Monroe Schools: 175 for secondary (180 less three school improvement days and two early dismissal days); 172 for elementary (180 less three school improvement days and five early dismissal days).
• High School on-time graduation rate: 81%

Download a PDF of Key Facts about Monroe Public Schools here.