WA Charters is a nonprofit organization that advocates for policies, raises awareness, and supports school quality to enable a growing sector of student-centered, antiracist public charter schools.
What People Are Saying
“I became an advocate for charter public schools — which I believe provide a great complement to traditional public schools, especially for students of color.”
Eric Pettigrew, Former WA State Representative D-37
“Washington’s charter public schools offer mentorship and mental health support, which has been a lifeline for students and families like mine.”
Taryn Major, Impact | Commencement Bay Elementary parent
“The state Board of Education recommends reopening the window to authorize more charters. The Seattle Times editorial board agrees. If they are running lean, and students who suffered in traditional schools are doing better in charters, Washington owes it to families to provide their kids a similar chance to thrive.”
The Seattle Times editorial board
“I don't just WANT it to be solved; I NEED it to be solved. I believe my public school should have the same advantages as other district schools.”
Betzy Espinoza, 8th grade student at Pinnacles Prep
“As we reflect on this school year, what we’re most proud of is watching our daughter continue to grow into herself as a proud Black girl in an environment where diversity is celebrated.”
Acacia Corson and James Porter, Impact | Black River Elementary parents
Free. Public. Open to All.
Every child deserves a great public education. Washington’s charter public schools give families additional options that are free, open to all, and deliver proven results.
One Size Doesn’t Fit All
Traditional public schools are working for many, but not all students. Families need free, public options that fit unique needs and learning styles.
More Flexibility, Strong Accountability
Charter public schools have more flexibility than traditional public schools to be nimble, adaptive, and take creative approaches. In exchange, they must meet a high bar for demonstrating student success and school quality.
Identity-Affirming, Community-Rooted Public School Options
Washington’s charter public schools attract and serve higher rates of Black, Indigenous, and Students of Color, and are staffed by BIPOC teachers at 3x the rate as compared to traditional public schools statewide.
Explore Charter Public Schools in Washington!
There are a growing number of high-quality, community-rooted charter public school options across the state.
17
Charter Public Schools in WA State
5K+
Students Served
›2X
Employment of BIPOC Teachers
(compared to statewide)
Take Action
Join the movement to ensure that every student in Washington State gets a public education that puts them on the path to a successful future.
