Seattle – Today Washington Policy Center (WPC) released a new book by local philanthropist, entrepreneur, and education reformer Scott Oki.  Outrageous Learning: An Education Manifesto describes the real problems facing schools today and offers 11 foundational thoughts for bringing constructive change to public education.  These ideas include:

1. Allow local school principals to lead their schools.

2. Allow schools to hire qualified teachers from the broadest pool possible, not just those who hold teaching credentials.

3. Allow parents more choices among public schools.

4. Allow students to spend more time learning.

5. Offer early learning opportunities and alternatives to traditional high school.

6. Muster an army of volunteers to help classroom teachers.

7. Don’t prescribe standardized curricula.

8. Intervene early, end social promotion, and get all kids reading at grade level in pre K-4.

9. Reallocate public education dollars to serve the core mission of schools: educating students.

10. Establish values, mold character, and develop leadership skills.

11. Establish a culture of excellence by embracing change and relentlessly pursuing innovation.

Outrageous Learning is intended to start an ongoing discussion of genuine education reform, and so in addition to the book, WPC has launched www.outrageouslearning.org.  This interactive website provides a discussion forum for sharing ideas, asking questions, and continuing a broad conversation about improving public schools.

“For the first time in U.S. history, the current generation is less educated than their parents,” says Scott Oki.  “There really is nothing more important to the future of our country than to make sure all children have the most indispensible tool they need to prosper: an education.”

Here’s what Mark Emmert and Dan Evans have to say about Outrageous Learning:

“All of us agree that the American system of public education is in need of serious repair...Scott Oki’s new book clearly states his recipe for success...if we are to make real progress at improving our public education system we need to thoughtfully debate ideas like this.”  –Mark A. Emmert, University of Washington President

“This small book contains huge, provocative, and dynamic ideas to make public education ‘outrageously better.’ Every parent should devour this book and take action to help make American public education the best in the world.”

  –Daniel J. Evans, former Washington State Governor and Senator

On June 16 WPC will host a formal reception at The Four Seasons Hotel in Seattle to officially launch the book.  Education leaders from the legislature and local business leaders will be attending.

The book is available for $9.95 plus shipping and tax.  Visit www.outrageouslearning.org for more information or to order the book.  To arrange an interview with Scott Oki or to receive a copy of Outrageous Learning please contact John Barnes at 206-937-9691.