WEA

The Washington Education Association, normally a firm backer of Democratic politicians, has broken with its normal trajectory and endorsed Rep. Dave Reichert (R-Auburn) in his re-election race against Carnation Democrat Darcy Burner, according to the TNT.

"Washington educators appreciate Rep. Reichert's support for public schools, students and education employees. He understands the need to invest in quality public education," WEA President Mary Lindquist said in a press release.

The WEA, the biggest teachers union in the state, is now left with a Superintendent whom they have viciously attacked, a test that isn't so bad after all, and nobody to lead their parade.

The WEA really doesn't want Terry Bergeson to be Superintendent anymore. But nobody else really wants the job either. Here's why.

Public School Employees E.D. Randy Dorn enters the race, where incumbent Terry Bergeson has been abandoned by the WEA, who gave their endorsement to Richland Superintendent Rich Semler. WASL-watch starts now.

Rich SemlerPostman's blog is reporting that, although State Superintendent of Public Instruction Terry Bergeson is a past president of the Washington Education Association, the group has decided to back challenger Rich Semler instead.

Bergeson has held the position since 1996, and Semler was the superintendent of the Richland school district from 1997-2007.

"I appreciate the WEA endorsement for my platform of change," Semler said in a statement. "This endorsement represents the teachers who are on the frontlines educating our children and who will work with me in our effort to refocus Washington education from testing to a more balanced curriculum that embraces high standards yet respects individual student needs and desires."