Knopp named co-vice chair of ‘student success’ panel

Senator Tim Knopp (R-Bend) was appointed Thursday as co-vice chair of the Joint Committee on Student Success. The committee was formed by Senate President Peter Courtney (D-Salem) and House Speaker Tina Kotek (D-Portland) to investigate and address the failing Oregon K-12 public education system.

“Students across the state in Oregon’s public schools should have the opportunity to succeed,” Knopp said. “Each area of the state will have different needs and concerns. My hope is that we can craft legislative solutions that will properly address the needs of kids across the state.”

Facing low graduation rates, large class sizes, limited funding and years of ineffective policy fixes, the committee is tasked with proposing a package of legislation to be considered during the 2019 session. The committee members will travel the state and hold public meetings with families, school districts, business owners, and other interested parties.