Shifting Policy, Shaping Futures
We advocate for bold, equitable policies that support historically and perpetually marginalized communities while affecting systems change at the local, regional, and statewide levels in Washington.
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The FFTS Policy Newsletter examines education policy and politics at the local, state, and national levels. We analyze public policy trends, with a particular focus on education issues. Subscribe to stay informed on the latest updates.
Policy Platform Priorities:
SCHOOL FUNDING FORMULA
Goal: Revise Washington’s school funding formula to allocate state-funding equitably and support student experiences that drive student outcomes.
Action: Analyze the state’s school funding model along lines of funding equity to identify the changes that enhance student learning and achievement.
CHRONIC ABSENTEEISM
Goal: Reduce chronic absenteeism by 50% within five years.
Action: Develop and implement a statewide attendance and engagement plan that fosters regular attendance. In-class learning, peer connections, and positive relationships with school staff are essential to student success.
LEARNING ACCELERATION
Goal: Close academic achievement gaps and recover learning lost since the COVID-19 pandemic.
Action: Invest in high-quality academic support during and after school, targeting students with the greatest need. These interventions are critical for promoting equity and enabling all students to succeed.
SCHOOL MEALS
Goal: Ensure all K-12 students have access to free meals at school.
Action: Provide free breakfast and lunch for every K-12 student, regardless of household income. Universal free school meals support health, well-being, and academic performance.
HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION
Goal: Reimagine high school learning standards to prepare all students for life after graduation.
Action: Invest in high-quality academic support during and after school, targeting students with the greatest need. These interventions are critical for promoting equity and enabling all students to succeed.
HIGH SCHOOL AND COLLEGE DUAL CREDIT
Goal: Bridge K-12 and postsecondary systems to expand opportunities.
Action: Align programs like Running Start, College in the High School, and career and technical education dual credit. These programs empower students to explore meaningful pathways, build futures, and advance inclusion in higher education.
COLLEGE AND CAREER ADVISING
Goal: Implement an integrated statewide strategy for college and career counseling, advising, and coaching.
Action: Invest in comprehensive advising and coaching services statewide, and across K-12 and postsecondary systems. Hands-on navigational support for students is an evidence-based approach to increasing rates of postsecondary enrollment and credential attainment.
FINANCIAL AID
Goal: Make postsecondary education affordable and accessible for all.
Action: Expand financial aid to cover the full cost of attendance, including tuition, housing, food, and transportation. Pair this with guaranteed admissions programs to remove financial barriers and promote equity in higher education.
POSTSECONDARY VALUE PROPOSITION
Goal: Demonstrate the value of postsecondary credentials.
Action: Highlight workforce opportunities and earning potential for graduates. Providing concrete evidence on the return on investment in higher education is essential to addressing public skepticism and ensuring broad access.
