Floor debates intensified this week, with tensions flaring over controversial bills. Behind closed doors, last-minute negotiations continue as lawmakers push toward the next deadline. Next week’s budget drafts and revenue forecast will shape key funding decisions amid fiscal uncertainty. Watch live or stay tuned for updates.

Since covering pension/retirement/health insurance issues on behalf of WASA and AWSP, there are a few important points we have learned. This is just a brief summary of selected retirement related topics. One needs to check with the Department of Retirement Systems (DRS) and the Health Care Authority (HCA) for definitive answers to questions about their own situation. Policies change so this document is just a broad overview highlighting some issues.  The importance of advance planning cannot be overstated. These are not issues to put off until the last months of either one’s impending retirement or approaching Medicare eligible age. Start by requesting an official benefit estimate from DRS 3-12 months prior to your retirement date.

Cascade Elementary’s Dr. James West has been recognized as the Washington State 2025 Elementary Assistant Principal of the Year, an honor that reflects his exceptional leadership, commitment to student success, and dedication to fostering a positive school culture.

Cathi Davis, the founding principal of Ruby Bridges Elementary School, has been awarded the prestigious Principal of the Year award by the Association of Washington School Principals (AWSP), recognizing her exceptional leadership, unwavering commitment to inclusion, and profound impact on students, staff, and families.

Here is a list of February recognitions and holidays, along with suggestions on how to observe and celebrate them within your school community.

Many proposals, including HB 1795 on restraint and isolation, are at risk due to funding concerns. Lawmakers face tough decisions following major budget cut proposals from Governor Ferguson and the House Democrats. Meanwhile, bills on special education, financial education, and student attendance are still in play. As floor action heats up before the next cutoff on March 12, now is the time to take action—advocate for a simple majority for bonds and submit feedback on OSPI’s proposed discipline rules.

Since covering pension/retirement/health insurance issues on behalf of WASA and AWSP, there are a few important points we have learned. This is just a brief summary of selected retirement related topics. One needs to check with the Department of Retirement Systems (DRS) and the Health Care Authority (HCA) for definitive answers to questions about their own situation. Policies change so this document is just a broad overview highlighting some issues.  The importance of advance planning cannot be overstated. These are not issues to put off until the last months of either one’s impending retirement or approaching Medicare eligible age. Start by requesting an official benefit estimate from DRS 3-12 months prior to your retirement date.

Did you know that TPEP funds—state-allocated dollars specifically set aside for professional development—must be used by the end of the year, or they go back to the state? If your district has unused TPEP funding, now is the perfect time to allocate it toward registration and travel for the annual Summer Conference.

The first policy cutoff has narrowed active bills, with fiscal committees now focusing on budget-related proposals. Key updates include the restraint and isolation bill moving forward with planned amendments, a graduation garb bill allowing cultural items at ceremonies, and extensions for retired educators working in schools. OSPI is seeking feedback on new discipline rules, while K-12 funding remains uncertain amid a $4.8 billion budget shortfall.

As you know, OSPI released emergency discipline rules related to classroom exclusions at the start of the school year. They have now opened public comment as part of their permanent rulemaking process. We need our school leaders to submit feedback to OSPI. Even if changes in your building have been subtle, your voice matters. We must ensure your perspectives as principals and assistant principals are heard. If you don’t tell your story, someone will tell it for you.

Since covering pension/retirement/health insurance issues on behalf of WASA and AWSP, there are a few important points we have learned. This is just a brief summary of selected retirement related topics. One needs to check with the Department of Retirement Systems (DRS) and the Health Care Authority (HCA) for definitive answers to questions about their own situation. Policies change so this document is just a broad overview highlighting some issues.  The importance of advance planning cannot be overstated. These are not issues to put off until the last months of either one’s impending retirement or approaching Medicare eligible age. Start by requesting an official benefit estimate from DRS 3-12 months prior to your retirement date.

As the session shifts from policy hearings to tough negotiations, lawmakers face key deadlines. Bills must pass policy committees this week or wait until next year, with fiscal cutoff looming next. Democratic budget writers grapple with tough funding choices, while leadership in the Rules Committee decides which bills advance or get sidelined. Stay tuned as the session heats up.

Since covering pension/retirement/health insurance issues on behalf of WASA and AWSP, there are a few important points we have learned. This is just a brief summary of selected retirement related topics. One needs to check with the Department of Retirement Systems (DRS) and the Health Care Authority (HCA) for definitive answers to questions about their own situation. Policies change so this document is just a broad overview highlighting some issues.  The importance of advance planning cannot be overstated. These are not issues to put off until the last months of either one’s impending retirement or approaching Medicare eligible age. Start by requesting an official benefit estimate from DRS 3-12 months prior to your retirement date.

This week, legislative discussions focused on the Parents’ Bill of Rights, with new bills (HB 1296/SB 5181) introduced to clarify existing language. The Seattle Times featured AWSP’s stance on amendments related to parent notifications in school-related crimes. Meanwhile, the House Appropriations Committee heard bills on free school meals (HB 1404) and increased MSOC funding (HB 1338). With the February 21 policy bill deadline approaching, committees are working quickly to advance key legislation.

With nearly 2,000 bills introduced, the legislative process is moving quickly as key bills head to fiscal committees ahead of the February 21 policy cutoff. Governor Ferguson’s 6% agency budget cuts are adding pressure, with high-stakes decisions expected next week. Meanwhile, political tensions are rising between the House and the Governor’s office, signaling potential conflicts ahead. As budget negotiations heat up, expect more drama in the coming weeks. Stay tuned for updates.

Since covering pension/retirement/health insurance issues on behalf of WASA and AWSP, there are a few important points we have learned. This is just a brief summary of selected retirement related topics. One needs to check with the Department of Retirement Systems (DRS) and the Health Care Authority (HCA) for definitive answers to questions about their own situation. Policies change so this document is just a broad overview highlighting some issues.  The importance of advance planning cannot be overstated. These are not issues to put off until the last months of either one’s impending retirement or approaching Medicare eligible age. Start by requesting an official benefit estimate from DRS 3-12 months prior to your retirement date.

Here is a list of February recognitions and holidays, along with suggestions on how to observe and celebrate them within your school community.

Every February, Black History Month serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience, brilliance, and contributions of Black Americans throughout history. It is a time for reflection, celebration, and education, ensuring that the stories of Black leaders, innovators, and changemakers are recognized and honored.

This week’s legislative focus included school safety, financial literacy, special education funding, and student rights. Bills on adding nurses to the BEST program, restricting flavored tobacco, and revising graduation requirements were discussed. With the February 21 deadline approaching, staying engaged is key. Read on for details and upcoming hearings.

This week at the Capitol, budget concerns took center stage as legislators scrambled to introduce bills ahead of the February 21 policy committee cutoff. A series of fast-moving budget bills aim to transfer $2 billion from reserve funds to help offset the state’s growing $10-14 billion deficit. With fiscal constraints tightening, most bills requiring new funding face an uphill battle. Meanwhile, major caucus-priority bills—covering rent control, parental rights, environmental crimes, and police accountability—are gaining traction. As budget realities set in, whispers of a special session are already circulating.