Dear Neighbors,
As Chair of the House Education Committee, I am pleased to present an overview of our accomplishments in education over the past year, as well as a preview of the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
In the past year, we have made progress toward providing every student in Washington with a high-quality, equitable education. We increased funding for special education services. We raised the enrollment cap from 15 to 16 percent and we included $417 million in permanent new monies to enhance these services by refining the funding formula.
We expanded access to dual language and tribal language education programs, addressing the linguistic and cultural needs of our diverse student population. In response to the opioid crisis, we introduced substance use prevention education to schools.
Recognizing the need for workforce development, we directed the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction to collaborate with industry partners to develop an Allied Health Professions Core Plus Career and Technical Education Program.
We provided more funding for materials, supplies, and operating costs per pupil. We enhanced allocations for paraeducators, office support staff, and non-instructional aides. We extended the Running Start program to the summer and expanded high school graduation pathways to include performance-based learning exhibitions that leverage real-world skills.
Budget Constraints and Challenges
This year, we face a significant budget shortfall, with an anticipated $10-12 billion budget gap resulting from lower-than-expected revenue and considerable inflation. This confluence of factors leaves the Legislature with tough choices. Although basic education is a constitutionally protected priority, all new policy proposals which cost public dollars will undergo intense scrutiny. I will work with OSPI and local leaders to most effectively meet the needs of schools, including expenses for materials, transportation, and special education.
The 2025 Legislative Session
I am committed to addressing these fiscal constraints and seeking practical solutions in collaboration with my legislative colleagues. We are exploring options to cover the increased costs of materials and special education, new ways to support our school districts, and easing the financial strain on families.
My utmost priority remains on the well-being and success of each and every student. By refocusing on building up the conditions for teaching and learning to thrive, we can create a system that supports each and every student across the state.
Sincerely,
