Advocate

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.

Hear from Charter Public School Advocates!

What We Are Advocating For

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 18 charter public schools. Allowing time for up to 40 to open would fulfill the legislative and voter intent and benefit marginalized students.

Funding Equity

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.

Special Education

Together with other public education advocates, we are passionate about improving special education services for all students in our state who qualify for them.
Legislative Priorities

Advocate With Us!

Upcoming Events

These public events are open to all who are interested, and we look forward to seeing you there! If you have questions, please feel free to email JT at jonthomas@wacharters.org or Darcelina at darcelina@wacharters.org.  

Advocacy 101: The Ins and Outs of Legislative Session

This virtual workshop is to show you the inside workings of legislative session and how it functions. You will learn about bill-to-law process, how to find your legislative district, how to contact legislators, and how to prepare for meeting with your legislator.

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Advocacy 201: How to Engage with Decision Makers

In this virtual workshop, we will discuss what advocacy is, how to become an advocate, and what skills you need to strengthen to be a good advocate.

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Advocacy 301: Run of Show

Please join us to discuss some easy ways you can support your charter public school. This will give you information on our plans for the 2025 legislative session.

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2025 Legislative Session Kick-off

Please join us to kick-off the 2025 legislative session in style! We will discuss what we have been hearing, pertinent bills for education, and a forecast for the 2025 legislative session.

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January Legislative Session Update

This virtual event is for charter public school families, friends, staff, and community members to come together and learn about the progress of our legislative priorities and steps you can take to help support our priorities.

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February Legislative Session Update

This virtual event is for charter public school families, friends, staff, and community members to come together and learn about the progress of our legislative priorities and steps you can take to help support our priorities.

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