PUBLIC schools need to align themselves more closely with innovation and technology, a principle embedded as much in ideals around creative learning as a need for cost-saving efficiencies.

Sure, many schools boast online courses and computers for student use, but there is not enough of either. Better integrating cutting-edge technology and innovation into the content and tools used by teachers and students could change the educational landscape.

Washington state is home to a thriving technology sector and plenty of forward-thinking entrepreneurs. No surprise then that useful ideas and debate are emerging from a series of forums hosted by the University of Washington's Center on Reinventing Public Education.

At a recent forum, technology tools used for testing and keeping track of student data were among the many innovations discussed. Digital tutors, computer-based learning and virtual backpacks that keep track of student data are compelling new advances.

Teachers need these tools to make their students more successful.

Public libraries are a visible example of the way incorporating technology offered improvement for users and the lending system. A variety of technology platforms allow library users to gain access to books through a variety of ways. It ought to be a similar story in education.

Tighter education budgets add a sense of urgency to the need to do more without a lot of extra funding.

Political and market conditions must change for this to happen. Virtually all school funding is tightly earmarked, most for salaries. There is not a lot of money left for a principal to, say, hire extra tutors or purchase a new online math program.

Encouraging creativity and innovation will require state lawmakers to be open to prioritize more spending on school innovation.

A handful of schools around the state have been singled out by the Office of the Superintendent for Public Instruction to develop innovative school programs. With 295 school districts, more innovation schools ought to be coming.