Although the 2025 legislative session concluded in April, my work representing you continues year-round. Over the past six months, I’ve been meeting with neighbors, visiting local organizations, and collaborating with colleagues to prepare for the 2026 session.
Below you’ll find a few highlights from my interim work. As January approaches, please watch for opportunities to share your priorities and help shape our legislative agenda.
Supporting Our Local Schools
I recently visited the Lakewood School District to meet with Superintendent Dr. Erin Murphy, teachers, and student leaders. We discussed the district’s priorities and the ongoing work to ensure every student has the support they need to succeed. As a lifelong educator, I value the opportunity to listen directly to those on the front lines of our education system.
Supporting Higher Education
Throughout this interim, I’ve been traveling across the state to hear from students and educators. During visits to Washington State University’s Pullman and Spokane campuses, I met with faculty and students at the Native American Health Sciences Center and the Sleep and Performance Research Lab, gaining insight into their challenges and successes.
Unlocking Your Future with FAFSA & WAFSA
Paying for college, apprenticeships, or post-high school training shouldn’t hold you back and in Washington, it doesn’t have to. Last month, Governor Bob Ferguson launched the Washington Completes FAFSA campaign, urging students and families to take the critical step of completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the Washington Application for State Financial Aid (WASFA).
Filling out one of these forms is the key to unlocking financial aid opportunities. Nearly half of Washington households qualify for support through the Washington College Grant (WA Grant), one of the most generous state financial aid programs in the country. The WA Grant covers tuition not only at public colleges and universities, but also for registered apprenticeships and job training programs.
Here’s what that means for families:
- If your family income is at or below 60% of the state median family income, your full tuition and fees will be covered at any Washington public university.
- Even families with higher incomes may qualify for some support.
- Students who aren’t eligible for federal aid can still apply for the WASFA to access state funding.
Yet, Washington ranks near the bottom nationally in FAFSA completion. That means too many students are leaving money on the table.
Research from the Washington Student Achievement Council (WSAC) shows that when students from the lowest-income families receive aid, they typically earn more than their parents within three years of graduating – proof of the power of financial aid to change lives.
The FAFSA for the 2026–2027 school year opened October 1st. Don’t wait—your future opportunities depend on it.
Stay Engaged
As we approach the 2026 legislative session, I’d like to again thank everyone who reached out this interim to share your story, concerns, and questions. As always, it’s an honor to serve as your state representative.
Sincerely,
