WASHINGTON PAST AND PRESENT

In 1996, teachers from around the state of Washington came to Directed Media hoping our publishing company could fill a void in the educational marketplace. They asked us to publish an elementary Washington State history textbook and supplemental materials that would exceed the Essential Academic Learning Requirements (EALR) established by the State Board of Education. Likewise, they were seeking a textbook that would grab the attention of their elementary students while educating them at the same time. We worked closely with teachers and administrators until we felt confident we had a clear understanding of their wishes. We spent the next 18 months fulfilling our promise to elementary teachers looking to educate our state’s youth. Washington: Past and Present strategically places graphics, photos, maps, vignettes, and timelines throughout this textbook to explain concepts in more detail. This text uses 116 color photos and black and white historical images when appropriate. It is also popular at the secondary level for ESL and special needs students.