Homelessness on the rise among Washington’s K-12 students
The number of students in Washington’s school system experiencing homelessness climbed last year, a new report finds. Data from the Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction shows that 3.8%, or 42,436 students, experienced homelessness during the 2022-2023 school year. Students who are homeless often suffer academically and are more likely to drop out of school or get suspended or expelled than their peers. They also tend to have higher absentee rates, worse test scores and lower graduation rates, according to the report. Continue reading at WA State Standard. (Getty Images)
Spokane landlords soon required to give four to six months notice for rent increases
Starting in June, Spokane landlords will be required to give six months notice for rent increases above three percent. Spokane City Council passed the measure on Monday evening, also requiring landlords give four months notice for rent increases of three percent or less. The city is also working on a housing registry to show how many units in Spokane are actually available for rent. Continue reading at KXLY. (Bronte Sorotsky)
Garfield High School sex abuse allegations reveal weaknesses in staff oversight laws
Sexual abuse allegations against two former coaches at Garfield High School in Seattle reveal numerous failures and weaknesses in the oversight system meant to protect children in schools. Two Washington state laws designed to keep abusive teachers out of the classroom – and to report suspected abuse of students – do not typically apply to staff without state certificates, which is often the case with coaches. Continue reading at KUOW. (Cliff Meyer)
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