This short legislative session was shaped by tough budget choices and big questions about how Washington supports students and young people. Many of those questions remain unanswered; below is a snapshot of where progress was made—and where momentum is building for the year ahead.
Ninth Grade Success
One of the bright spots this session was continued funding for the Ninth Grade Success Initiative. The legislature approved $1.5 million to keep this work going in 50 schools, supporting thousands of students at a critical moment in their education. Ninth grade is one of the strongest predictors of whether a student will graduate on time, and this investment means more students are staying on track, regaining credits, and building confidence early in high school.
Progress Toward Distraction‑Free Schools
Lawmakers heard parents, students, and educators voice strong support for limiting cell phone use during the school day. The legislature stopped short of requiring statewide policies, instead directing OSPI to review what districts are doing and recommend next steps. The research is clear: schools that reduce phone use are seeing better focus, stronger relationships, and fewer disruptions—and this conversation is far from over. Stand will be working this interim to ensure Washington is on track to join a majority of states with a strong, clear, and consistent statewide policy on this issue.
Check Out what Gov. Ferguson said about cell phone free schools
Supporting Fairer Outcomes for Youth in the Justice System
Lawmakers spent time this session debating how Washington responds to young people involved in the justice system. We were deeply disappointed that the Individualized Justice for Youth Act (HB 2389) did not pass. The difficult conversations with lawmakers and stakeholders reaffirm the importance of solutions that focus on growth, accountability, and public safety rather than incarceration alone. The legislature did approve an additional $2 million for local juvenile court services, bringing more resources directly to communities to support youth and families. We’ll be monitoring implementation and impact of that investment on youth access to services.
Have you met Rashan? Check out this powerful video of what community support can do to support WA youth.
Second Chances for Long Sentences
The legislature also considered proposals that would allow people serving very long prison sentences to ask a judge to review their case after many years. These efforts did not move forward this session, but it’s clear there is a growing awareness that people can change—and that Washington relies heavily on some of the longest sentences in the country. We will continue working with impacted individuals and community leaders to push for pathways that recognize rehabilitation while centering victims and safety.
Coming Soon: Dual Credit Communications Toolkit
Clear communication makes it easier for students and families to access opportunities. We’re excited to share a new Dual Credit Communications Toolkit launching in May to help schools and districts streamline messaging and better explain program options to families. Keep your eyes peeled—more details coming soon!
Welcome to the Team!
We’re thrilled to welcome Lindsey Peterson (she/her) as our new State Operations Coordinator. Lindsey brings over a decade of nonprofit experience across outreach, fundraising, communications, and events, along with recent experience supporting leadership teams at Microsoft. Outside of working hours she’s usually writing, cross stitching, and/or watching tv with her little black cat. She’s passionate about education equity, believes deeply in the dignity of all people, and we’re so excited to have her join Stand for Children Washington.
We’re heading into the interim encouraged by the progress made and energized to keep pushing forward. The outcomes of this session reinforce what we know to be true: when we invest early, lead with fairness, and listen to students, families, and communities, better systems are possible. Thank you for standing with us—we look forward to continuing this work together in the months ahead and into the next legislative session.
