OLYMPIA, Wash.-Superintendent Chris Reykdal detailed the state of education in Washington during his annual address on Jan. 10, highlighting learning, mental health and school funding.
“The progress made by our students, educators, and school and district staff over the past year is incredible,” said Superintendent Reykdal.
According to Superintendent Reykdal, data from the 2022–23 school year shows that Washington’s public schools are seeing increased rates of students enrolling in public school, attending school, completing advanced coursework, and graduating from high school on time.
Reykdal also highlighted one of OSPI’s larger programs, the regional mental and behavioral health services initiative, in his address.
The initiative, operated through the Association of Educational Service Districts (AESD) and delivered in every region of the state, provides trained staff to schools across the state who provide foundational prevention education and training for students, staff, and families; as well as coordinated intervention supports directly for students, according to Reykdal.
In regards to school funding, Reykdal said that a major issue is getting bonds passed for schools, with only about “45% of bonds passing in the past decade.
OSPI continues to advocate for the Legislature to eliminate the super-majority requirement for bonds, with Reykdal saying that over 70 percent of the failed bonds would have passed if only a simple majority were needed.
“Schools need resources so that they can provide students with access to challenging learning experiences, support their health and well-being, and prepare them for the future,” said Reykdal.
A recording of Reykdal’s annual address is available for viewing online.
