Lawmakers Prioritize Youth Development & Introduce Equitable Policies

Over 700 members of the Washington National Guard surrounded the capitol building in Olympia on Monday where lawmakers met in person to vote on convening virtually for the 105-day session. The legislature is hopeful that this provides the public with more access and opportunity to participate in shaping the laws that govern us.

 

During his inaugural address, Governor Inslee highlighted relief, recovery, and resilience as his priorities during this session. He is calling for education related programs to be maintained – a noticeable divergence from last year’s conversation around program budget cuts.

 

Senator Claire Wilson (D-Auburn) and Representative Tana Senn (D-Mercer Island) introduced The Fair Start for Kids Act yesterday addressing the child care crisis. The bill aims to make child care more affordable for families, support the expansion of child care, and more.

 

Public testimonies from state agency leadership, parents, and other professionals emphasized the disastrous impact the last year has had on our marginalized students. Discussion surrounded the need to prioritize resources to meet the needs of youth and reduce barriers to an equitable education. 

 

We encourage you to participate in our democracy during this session and join us in elevating policies in favor of Tacoma and Pierce County students. We will continue to advocate for investments in quality early learning, safeguard funding for K-12 readiness and youth development programs, and implement an automatic opt-in for the College Bound Scholarship. We’ve put together resources to help get you involved and will continue to update you with more opportunities to advocate on behalf of our youth.

Participating in a Virtual Legislative Session

All meetings, hearings, and testimonies for the 2021 legislative session will be conducted virtually. We’ve compiled a list of resources to keep you connected and engaged during this unprecedented session.

Advocating for Comprehensive School Counseling Programs

Foundation for Tacoma Students board member Grant Hosford testified in front of the Senate committee in favor of a bill regarding the development of comprehensive school counseling programs.

Biden's American Rescue Plan

President-Elect Joe Biden released his $1.9 trillion economic recovery plan on Thursday, which includes $1 trillion in direct relief for families, $400 billion in aid to communities and businesses, funding for schools reopening, and more.

Youth Development Virtual Rally

Join School’s Out Washington on February 9 for a virtual rally to kick off Youth Development Advocacy Week. The one-hour event will include guest speakers, interactive art, talking points for advocacy and encouraging collective power.