Dear Friends & Neighbors,
Back to school is one of my favorite times of the year! Watching my own kids return to their classrooms, catch up with their friends and share summer break memories reminds me just how important these formative years are for our littlest learners.
That’s why I fought so hard for increased funding for our schools in the last legislative session. Despite massive reductions in tax revenue and devastating cuts to federal funding we rely on, I voted for a state budget that put MORE money into our schools than ever before. For Seattle Public Schools, that meant $34.2 million, including $7.3 million more in funding for special education and $1.9 million more for materials, supplies, and operating costs.
But there’s more work to do. In my conversations this summer, folks are understandably anxious about the chaos at the federal level. If the Department of Education is eliminated, how will that affect Seattle Public Schools? How will reductions in health care and food assistance adversely impact our students? What about our immigrant community members who are living in fear every day? While I don’t have all the answers to every question, I can tell you that I’m laser-focused on how to protect Washington state from the other Washington now and into the future.
Cell phones in schools: Take my survey!
As a parent, I am very concerned about the use of cell phones in schools being highly disruptive to learning environments and its impact on our kids’ increasing rates of depression, anxiety and self-harm.
Washington state has no statewide policy on cell phones in schools and I want to hear from you!
Please take a brief (less than 2 minutes) survey on options for a cell phone policy by clicking here.
Become a Legislative Intern
Do you know a college junior or senior interested in civic participation and state government? The Legislature is now accepting internship applications for the 2026 Legislative Session.
Students of all majors, political ideologies, and backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Along with academic credit, interns receive a $2400/month stipend and learn practical job skills that apply to many sectors.
Internships begin on January 6 and end on March 12. The priority deadline to apply is October 22, so share this with your local college juniors and seniors! Learn more at the Washington Legislative Civic Education Internship Program website.
Save the date: Come have a discussion with your lawmakers!
I value and appreciate the opportunity to hear directly from you and hope you’ll reach out to me anytime if you have any questions or thoughts to share.
Talk soon!
State Representative Liz Berry
36th Legislative District