Dear Friends and Neighbors –

Right now, we face the most significant threat to federal funding of key early learning and K-12 programs in Washington. This potential loss would be detrimental to the well-being and future success of children across our state, specifically in rural areas. For 2023-24, the total revenue our schools received from the federal government was $1.4 billion, or roughly 7% of total funds. Around $275 million of that was directed toward special education services.  

In this Washington, we prioritize education. On Saturday, the Senate passed a budget that makes significant investments in K-12 education. This includes $1 billion for special education services and $175 million for school materials, supplies and operating costs. Overall, K-12 represents more than 80% of the net new investments across the broader five-year budget outlook, showing our state’s commitment to improving public education and prioritizing students.  

I’m proud to be a member of the Early Learning & K-12 Education Committee, where I have supported legislation that helps ensure students have the tools needed to succeed. Below are just a few examples: 

SB 5193: Requires school districts with online programs to provide all students within those programs the ability to complete statewide assessments remotely. Right now, students enrolled in online programs are required to travel to testing sites for state assessments. I’m proud to sponsor this bill, which will ensure equitable access to these online assessments and help students, their families and educators.   

SB 5192: Increases funding for materials, supplies, and operating costs (MSOC) in schools while tying future adjustments to a specific inflation model. This bill will help ensure state funding reflects the actual costs districts face to maintain facilities, provide curriculum, and meet other essential operational needs.   

SB 5253: I am proud to sponsor this important bill aligning state law with the federal requirements under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) by extending special education services for students with disabilities until the end of the school year in which they turn 22 years old. As a special education teacher, I know how critical specialized and inclusive learning environments are to students’ lives. This bill will help us ensure we create a smooth transition from school to post-school life for students with disabilities. 

SB 5263: Boosts support for special education services for students with disabilities. Currently, all 295 school districts in our state say there is not enough funding to cover actual costs for special education services. This is unacceptable, and this bill will help us better serve all students.  

SB 5025: Aims to expand the deaf and deaf-blind educational interpreter workforce and ensure deaf, hard of hearing and deaf-blind students receive accurate classroom instructions.  

It’s more important than ever we invest in students, teachers, and schools. As a teacher, I have seen firsthand how a great education can change lives. I am dedicated to ensuring we have good schools across our state, because an investment in schools is an investment in the future of our state.  

It’s an honor to represent you and a privilege to bring our southwest Washington values to Olympia. 

Sincerely,

Sen. Adrian Cortes