Legislative Priorities
Funding Equity
The average student at a Washington state charter public school receives 25% less in ongoing funding than a student at a traditional public school. This funding gap means there are fewer resources for students who need that funding most. This inequity persists because charter public schools are not entitled to local property tax levies, creating a funding gap from $1,500 to $3,000 per student, and do not receive dedicated facilities funding.
More Time to Open New Schools
State law capped charter school openings at 40 within a five-year span, which ended in 2021. Today, there are 17 charter public schools. Allowing time for up to 40 to open would fulfill the legislative and voter intent and benefit marginalized students.
Facilities Funding
Unlike traditional public schools, Washington’s charters do not have dedicated funding for facilities. As a result, about 10% of charter budgets, intended to support teaching and learning, go to facilities.