Congratulations to charter public school student Samantha, who in October 2025 received the Outstanding Student Advocacy Award from WA Charters. These annual awards offer an opportunity to shine a light on the incredible parents, students, alumni, and leaders in our community who play an instrumental role in advocating for equitable public education.
Samantha joined the charter public school community as a 9th grade student, where her advocacy began as a student representative on the school board. Through that experience, she developed a deep understanding of the challenges charter public schools face. Since then, she has represented her school at Washington Charter School Commission meetings and traveled to Olympia to speak directly with legislators about the impact her school has had on her life.
This year, Samatha is expanding her advocacy work as a member of the inaugural WA Charters Student Advisory Group. One of just 11 students selected for this opportunity, Samatha will learn more about the Washington State Legislature, and engage in policy, advocacy, and communications work in support of charter public school funding. One of her letters of recommendation highlighted the value Samatha brings to her school community, saying:
“She is the kind of student that sets the bar. Not just academically, but also in how she shows up for her peers and models. Samantha shows what it means to be a community-minded leader.”
She continues to be a powerful voice for charter school students across the state and remains committed to ensuring all schools receive the funding and support they need. Thank you, Samantha, for your leadership and dedication to public education advocacy.