Henry “Shake” Washington Announces Candidacy for School Board.
Washington pledges to increase transparency, promote fiscal responsibility, improve parent communication, student performance, and teacher retention.
Tampa, Florida – Wednesday, August 16 ,2017 – Henry Washington, declared his candidacy for Hillsborough County’s School Board on Wednesday morning.
Prior to retiring in June of 2017, Henry "Shake" Washington worked for the School District of Hillsborough County for 42 years. Washington began his career as an instructional assistant and rose through the ranks to teacher, assistant principal, principal, area director, with his career culminating as the Area IV superintendent.
A United States Army Veteran having served for 24 years. Washington says “I have served in many positions within the military and the Hillsborough County Public school system I understand leadership and the importance of nurturing our teachers, staff and leaders so that they offer our children their very best,” Washington said.
“I am fiscal hawk and believe that we need the most efficient and effective people working in the system. I understand what works and what does not work. Our schools need to provide the highest level of education for our children so they can compete for the best jobs on the world stage. To do that, I believe the emphasis should be on learning, problem solving, and critical thinking, not just learning how to take a test. A solid foundation built upon science, technology, engineering, the arts, and math, should be the core of the focus. In addition, communication skills (reading, speaking, and writing) are essential to be successful in today’s business environment. Instead of trying to “re-invent the wheel” with the newer common core, and the over-testing of our children, we should allow our teachers to teach, and our children to learn."
“Though I am proud of the many wonderful accomplishments realized by the students and staff of Hillsborough County, I understand that some of our families and communities have begun to have doubts about those decisions. Comparatively, the economic wellbeing of our school district has caused others to question the sustainability of our investment in their children. Our school board requires members willing to put our children first and to defend our mission of providing our students education and support systems that ensure their continued success at all costs. If elected to the school board, I will be the community’s voice and our children’s advocate.”
“I look forward to a running a positive campaign, dialoging with stakeholders and meeting challenges head on. Together, we can help our children become the future leaders of Hillsborough County, America, and the world. Together, we can take our already great school district, and make it the best in the state. Please support Henry "Shake" Washington for Hillsborough County School Board, District 6 to ensure a common sense approach to education. I give my word we will do it together. Let's shake on it!"
