2026 Legislative Priorities

ESDs serve 1.1 million Washington students by providing behavioral and mental health student supports, professional learning for educators, and shared services that small and rural districts need most. While other state agencies averaged 6% to 10% reductions, the 2025 legislative session cut ESD core funding by 35%. This eliminated teaching and learning support as Washington transitions to new learning standards and limits our ability to be responsive to urgent district requests.

Core funding sustains staff who respond quickly to district needs and answer hundreds of daily requests about transportation, fiscal operations, staffing, curriculum, and crisis response. These services form the backbone of Washington’s educational system. The 35% reduction limits timely support, directly affecting students’ access to learning, stability, and wellness.

Washington students face significant math challenges. Statewide assessment data show many students are not meeting grade-level standards, with opportunity gaps disproportionately affecting students from low-income, rural, and historically underserved communities. Improving math outcomes is critical to ensuring college and career readiness and sustaining a competitive workforce. Students need conceptual understanding, procedural fluency, and problem-solving skills to succeed in STEM fields and participate fully in college, careers, and civic life in a data-driven world.