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It’s official! Dwane Chappelle confirmed director of DEEL!

DwaneChappelleMayorMurray

On Tuesday, February 9th Dwane Chappelle was confirmed by Seattle City Council as the new Director of the City’s Department of Education and Early Learning.

Mayor Murray nominated Chappelle in October 2015 to lead the newly created City department. Prior to his appointment, Chappelle served as the principal of Rainier Beach High School. He has long been a champion for students, and for ensuring that all kids have access to high quality learning. Under his leadership, Chappelle adopted a wide-spread International Baccalaureate program at Rainier Beach High School, offering these rigorous course to all students. Additionally, Rainier Beach saw a dramatic rise in graduation rates during this time, and ultimately was named as a Washington State School of Distinction.

Chappelle is now bringing his passion for educational equity to the City’s Department of Education and Early Learning (DEEL). Currently DEEL is tasked with implementing the Families and Education Levy, the Seattle Preschool Program, the Child Care Assistance Program, and the Washington State Early Childhood Education Assistance Program. Chappelle would like to use his time at DEEL to strengthen the City’s partnerships with Seattle Public Schools, along with community partners, philathropy and business–bringing various efforts together to do the best for our students.

In the spring Chappelle will be co-chairing, along with former King County executive Ron Sims, an Education Summit. This Summit will bring the City together to build partnerships and strengthen our efforts in closing the achievement gap.