ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ

As the 2024 to 2025 school year wraps up, we find ourselves at a critical crossroads—not just for education, but for the programs and services that help young people thrive across our state. At ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ (ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈWA), we are rising to meet the moment.

Following the recent passage of the state budget, youth development in Washington took a staggering 86% funding cut. Programs that support student connection, belonging, and achievement—like digital navigation services and mentoring—were either vetoed or dramatically reduced. The impact is personal: fewer caring adults in schools, less access to tools students need, and growing challenges for communities already stretched thin.

We’re not standing still. ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈWA is:

• Fighting for Youth Development Funding at the state and federal levels to reverse devastating budget cuts.
• Championing Digital Equity, so students in rural and low-income communities have access to devices, connectivity, and support.
• Investing in Site Coordinators and Career Readiness, ensuring students are met with stability and opportunity in school.
• Advocating for Systemic Change, elevating student voices and needs in Olympia and on Capitol Hill.

Across Washington, our network of 13 affiliates serves over 100,000 students—and we’re not backing down. Earlier this year, ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈWA joined national leaders in Washington, D.C., to speak directly to lawmakers about what’s at stake. Those conversations will shape the future of youth policy and ensure that Washington’s students are seen and heard.

Our Commitment to Equity and Inclusion

We remain committed to equity, belonging, and bipartisan solutions. Amid a shifting political landscape, our focus is unwavering: standing by students, families, and communities—especially those furthest from educational justice.

In the coming months, we’ll share opportunities to join us—from advocacy actions to community events. At the end of session, we’ll report back on where we’ve moved the needle—and where the fight continues.

Let’s show Washington’s students that their future is too important to pause.

To get involved or learn more, contact Interim State Director Erica Limón-Trefielo at erica@ciswa.org or visit .

Together, we can ensure every student has the opportunity to thrive.