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.

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 

Why We Advocate

In this workshop, you will learn about what advocacy is, best practices, and why families, students, and staff of charter public schools must continue to advocate for their school.

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How We Advocate for Change

In this workshop, we will discuss how to become an advocate and what skills you need to strengthen to be a good advocate. This will include how to write your story and how to communicate your story to decision makers.

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Using Our Community Power

In this workshop, you will learn about the power of community. We will discuss some easy ways you can support your charter public school. This will give you information on our plans for the 2026 legislative session, what to expect, and how to make an impact.

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2026 Session Kick-off

Please join us to kick off the 2026 legislative session in style! We will discuss what we have been hearing, pertinent bills for education, and a forecast for the 2026 legislative session.

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January Session Update

These events are 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 Session Update

These events are 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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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.

Advocate With Us!