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Legislative Update for 4.18.25
Spring is a season of change in schools and in Olympia, with students, staff, and legislation all in transition. As we wait for final decisions on the state budget and key bills, leaders are also looking ahead to the 2026 session with curiosity and hope—especially around AI and student-centered reforms. While funding gaps remain a…
Learn MoreAI: Action Figure
At AWSP, we’re always looking for new, fun, and meaningful ways to explore the world of artificial intelligence—and share those discoveries with you!
Learn MoreRetirement & Health Benefits – April 18, 2025
As the session moves toward Sine Die, now is the time for both houses to coordinate and negotiate their differing budgets and bills that have made it past both houses. Note, both House and Senate budgets will be released 3/24 so the status of much of what is covered below may be clarified by inclusion…
Learn MoreWashington Cease Fire
Since 2017, with the help of a grant from the King County Academy of Family Physicians, they have reached nearly 10,000 students in grades 9-12 at more than two dozen Washington State high schools. The presentation has been vetted by Lisa Love, Director of Health Curricula for Seattle Public Schools. The Superintendents of the Tacoma…
Learn MoreDo You Know about “Red Flag Laws”?
The goal for safe communities, and protecting our loved ones, is common ground, a goal around which all of us can rally. It is a goal and worry that can keep us up at night. The violence that can harm our community members is tragic to experience and unpleasant to think about. Understanding and implementing…
Learn MoreTime Tracking: A Practical Guide for School Leaders
Ever feel like your day as a principal is a whirlwind of interruptions, meetings, and endless emails? You’re not alone. Dr. Nick Davies, our 2024 Washington State Elementary Assistant Principal of the Year, offers a straightforward strategy to help school leaders take control of their schedules and align their time with their school’s priorities.
Learn MoreMake a Splash for Washington Water Safety
On May 15, schools across the state are invited to participate in Water Safety Day — a special event dedicated to helping K-5 students learn life-saving water safety knowledge. The event includes a free, standards-based, 30-minute lesson plan complete with student engagement activities
Learn MoreCutting Hope: When We Lose an AP, We Lose a Lifeline
Assistant principals are student-centered beacons of hope in our school system. APs are unencumbered by specific certification requirements and truly serve as one of the greatest multi-tools in our schools. They can do anything and are often the ones leading systems changes like MTSS, PBIS, attendance initiatives, and community engagement. That flexibility of talent, skill,…
Learn MoreRetirement & Health Benefits – April 11, 2025
As the legislative session nears its end, retirement-related bills remain in flux. Key issues include the use of the LEOFF 1 surplus, cost-of-living adjustments for PERS/TRS Plan 1 members, and potential short- and long-term impacts of various pension reform bills. Several bills affecting public employees’ benefits and post-retirement employment rules are still active. Final outcomes…
Learn MoreHow One Outdoor Learning Trip Changed Everything
A single outdoor learning trip to the Mount Rainier Institute transformed not only Kyrsten Bowden’s confidence and independence as a student with a rare mobility disorder, but also her peers’ understanding of inclusion. Supported by thoughtful planning, adaptive tools, and visible representation, Kyrsten pushed past her limits and redefined what’s possible in outdoor education. This…
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