Former Kirkland representative from the 48th District, Ross Hunter, has been confirmed as the state’s new director of the Department of Early Learning. Hunter began the new role in 2015 after the Legislature passed the Early Start Act and made historic investments in early learning.

“Having worked with Ross as budget counterparts the last three years I’m confident in him leading our new and critical efforts on early learning,” said Sen. Andy Hill. “With our prioritization of early learning as a key part of our education system, he is well positioned to make sure that funding leads to meaningful outcomes for Washington’s children.”

In the 2015-17 state budget the Legislature provided an additional $159 million for early learning and care, which included a 1,600 child expansion of the state’s Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program.

“Ross’ passion for high-quality early learning was evident as we worked to dramatically improve the way we prepare children to enter our public school system,” said Sen. Steve Litzow, who represents Mercer Island, Bellevue and other Eastside King County communities and serves as chair of the Senate Early Learning and K-12 Education Committee. “Having represented the people of Bellevue together I look forward to his oversight and leadership at the Department of Early Learning.”

Litzow sponsored the Early Start Act aimed at improving and investing in high quality programs.

“As a lawmaker I spent many years working to align legislative policies and funding with the societal importance of high-quality early learning,” Hunter said. “It’s a great honor to be trusted by the governor and my former colleagues on both sides of the aisle to make sure the Early Start Act and major investments deliver results for Washington children.”

Heads of executive agencies, including the Department of Early Learning, are chosen and appointed by the governor. The Senate has the responsibility to approve appointments. Hunter has served since September.