Outline:
State Superintendent Calls for Education Funding and Tax Reform
State Superintendent of Public Instruction Chris Reykdal has emphasized the need for increased education funding and a more equitable tax system to support Washington’s public schools. During his annual news conference on the state of public education, Reykdal highlighted the importance of reforming the current tax structure to ensure that high-income individuals contribute fairly, while also easing the financial burden on middle-class families.
“We need tax reform,” Reykdal stated. “The wealthiest don’t pay an equitable share. Our middle-class families pay too much, in particular.”
Enrollment Trends and Educational Progress
Reykdal provided a snapshot of how K-12 students in the state are faring. Public school enrollment has decreased by about 41,000 since 2019, with some students opting for private schools or homeschooling. In the 2025-26 school year, there were 83,657 students in private schools and 31,664 in home schools.
Despite these changes, there are positive developments. Reykdal noted that the percentage of high school students taking college credits has increased, with about 70% of high schoolers enrolled in dual-credit classes, including career and technical education courses. Additionally, nearly 72% of ninth graders were on track to graduate, and the four-year graduation rate was 82.6% last year.
Ongoing Challenges and Areas for Improvement
However, challenges remain. Attendance is still not at pre-pandemic levels, with over a quarter of students missing more than 18 days of school in the 2024-25 school year. This is significantly higher than the 15% chronic absence rate in the 2018-19 school year.
Kindergarten readiness has improved, but only slightly more than half of kindergartners were ready to start school this academic year. Math performance also remains a concern, with only 57% of eighth graders demonstrating foundational grade-level knowledge or higher in math in 2025.
Reykdal stressed the need for greater emphasis on math education, starting from elementary school. He called for more math professional development for teachers and increased classroom time devoted to the subject. OSPI will also explore using technology to support advanced math students.
Legislative Efforts and Funding Proposals
Some of these proposals will require legislative approval. Reykdal plans to request support during the next legislative session. The state is also overhauling math standards, which will take effect in the 2027-28 school year.
Reykdal has previously advocated for boosting education funding by approximately $4 billion annually and increasing the state’s investment in K-12 education. However, major school funding changes are unlikely this legislative session. Other efforts are underway to make the state’s K-12 funding model more equitable, including a work group directed by the Legislature and proposals from a coalition of school district superintendents.
Currently, about 43% of the state’s budget goes to K-12 education, which is less than after the landmark McCleary lawsuit, which led to significant investments in public schools. According to research from the Education Law Center at Rutgers University, Washington ranks 40th in the nation for how much of its economy is reinvested into schools.
Support for Tax Reforms and Budget Concerns
Reykdal supports Gov. Bob Ferguson’s proposed “millionaires’” income tax on those earning more than $1 million annually, which could raise about $3 billion each year. However, he emphasized the need to focus on how these funds could be used to benefit middle-class families, particularly through reducing property taxes.
Ferguson’s recent budget proposal included potential cuts of $146.7 million from education, including reductions in transition-to-kindergarten programs for 4-year-olds. While the governor’s plan mostly protected classrooms, Reykdal warned that any cuts to student success initiatives are essentially cuts to education.
Cost-Saving Measures and Financial Training
In addition to seeking increased funding, Reykdal urged school districts to find ways to reduce administrative costs and improve efficiency. He suggested that districts should aim to deliver services with fewer administrators and governing bodies if possible.
Reykdal also supports legislation requiring school districts to maintain a minimum fund balance in their annual budgets. Although not mandated by state law, some districts have local policies in place. He further advocates for the Legislature to provide financial training for school board directors.