Congratulations to charter public school student Gabriel, who received the Outstanding Student Advocacy Award from WA Charters in October 2025. These annual awards honor the incredible parents, students, alumni, and leaders who play an instrumental role in advocating for equitable public education across Washington.
Gabriel became a charter public school student in 6th grade at one of the first charter public schools to open in Spokane. He discovered his passion for advocacy after researching charter public schools for a class essay and uncovering the funding and resource disparities between district and charter public schools.
“I advocate for charter public schools because of my firm belief in fair education regardless of their zip code. It’s essential that every student has access to the type of education that best fits their needs—pushing our state and education system toward a more equitable future.”
Since then, Gabriel has fully embraced student advocacy. He now serves on the Lieutenant Governor’s Legislative Youth Advisory Committee, representing 1.6 million students across Washington alongside 23 other student council members. His initiative also inspired the formation of the brand-new Student Advisory Group, after he reached out to WA Charters seeking an internship opportunity.
Beyond advocacy, Gabriel is an accomplished track and field athlete, becoming one of the first charter public school students to qualify for State, where he placed 8th. He also excels academically and is currently completing Running Start coursework through a local Community College.
“I have always thrived in environments where teachers have a genuine passion and care for their individual students’ success. In my charter public school, I’ve found an overwhelmingly caring community that truly supports each student.”
Gabriel is a powerful young voice working to create a more equitable education system for all Washington students, and we are thrilled to recognize his leadership and contributions with this award.