Dear students and families, 

Welcome to a new school year! 

I have always believed that education can open doors, change the direction of a life and help young people see possibilities they may not have imagined for themselves. As a former educator, a school board member, a parent and a two-time graduate of the University of Puget Sound, I know the power of having people who believe in you and support you along the way.  

Students, I hope you begin this year ready to learn and open to new experiences. Ask questions. Try something that challenges you. Introduce yourself to someone new. When you need help, please ask for it. You do not have to navigate every challenge alone. 

I also hope you will help build community wherever you are. Look for the student who may need a friend. Listen to people whose experiences are different from your own. Speak up when something does not feel right. Your actions can help make your school a place where every student feels seen, respected and valued.  

While we ask students to arrive ready to learn, adults have responsibilities, too. Families, educators, communities and policymakers must make sure students arrive to schools that are ready to support them.  

That means strong public schools with caring educators, counselors and support professionals. It means safe learning environments, access to academic and mental health services, and an education that helps students understand their communities and the world around them. 

It also means protecting students as technology changes. Artificial intelligence and automated systems are becoming more common in education. These tools should support learning, not compromise student privacy or replace the judgment of trusted educators. 

As vice chair of the Senate Early Learning & K–12 Education Committee, I will continue working on these priorities and listening to the students, families and educators who experience our education system every day. 

My commitment to you does not end at high school graduation. As chair of the Senate Higher Education & Workforce Development Committee, I am working to keep college, apprenticeships and career training within reach. Cost, paperwork and a lack of information should never be the reason a student gives up on their future. 

Students, you deserve an education system that believes in your potential and gives you the support to pursue it. You also deserve a voice in the decisions that affect your education. I hope you will continue sharing your experiences and ideas with me. 

I am excited for all that you will learn, create and contribute this year. Please know that I am cheering you on and working alongside you. 

With gratitude, 

Sen. T’wina Nobles 

28th Legislative District