Bergeson Holds Wide Lead For Schools Post

Wed., Sept. 20, 2000

From Staff

State Schools Superintendent Terry Bergeson was virtually assured of a second term Tuesday night, winning 58 percent of the vote in early returns as she faced four challengers for the nonpartisan post.

“It’s very exciting to me,” Bergeson said. “It’s been a controversial year. … People are saying, `Let’s keep moving.”’ In other statewide elections, Attorney General Christine Gregoire and Auditor Brian Sonntag faced no primary opposition and automatically advanced to the general election. With 27 percent of 7,260 precincts reporting, Lt. Gov. Brad Owen was winning his primary with 44 percent of the vote, and incumbent Treasurer Mike Murphy was winning his primary with 48 percent of the vote.

With Bergeson, an educator for 37 years, winning more than 50 percent of the vote on Tuesday, her name alone will be on the November ballot, virtually assuring her of re-election. She said her re-election is a vote of confidence in the changes taking place in the school system, including new statewide tests and a push toward higher standards.

“We’ve got four years to say, `How do we transform the way we do business in schools?”’ Bergeson said. “It’s got to be exciting learning in schools so kids want to stay in school.”

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