Report From WSPTA Advocacy Week
MERCER ISLAND SCHOOLS
Friday, January 30, marked the final day of WA State PTA’s (WSPTA) Focus on Advocacy Week, a week dedicated to championing Washington’s public education system and the issues that directly impact our students. Each year, WSPTA selects these advocacy actions based on the 2025–2026 Legislative Priorities voted on by its membership.
If you missed any of last week’s action items, there is still time to make your voice heard. Every voice matters, and collective advocacy truly influences our legislators. Please take about two minutes per pre-drafted letter below that you can edit to your liking to stand up for our students and the future of their education.
1. Did you know that the Mercer Island School District receives only about 69% of its basic education funding from the state? Article IX of the Washington State Constitutions states that "It is the paramount duty of the state to make ample provision for the education of all children residing within its borders, without distinction or preference." Click here to tell legislators that not fulfilling our one state paramount duty is unacceptable and that they must find immediate ways to narrow this funding gap!
2. During the last session, SB 5814 expanded the sales tax to fund education, but forgot to make school districts exempt from the tax themselves so they are now being taxed thousands or even millions of dollars, depending on district size. This tax, which was intended to fund public schools, is now pulling critical resources out of classrooms. Click here to urge legislators to fix this bill immediately!
3. Students depend on essential supports such as meals, health care, and other services, especially those most in need. These programs must be maintained. Click here to tell legislators that these supports are vital to student success.
4. Many Mercer Island schools are located next to public parks where children gather before, during, and after school, as well as during weekend sporting and community events. These spaces must be safe. Click here to urge legislators to pass legislation restricting guns in public places where children gather.
5. Schools must be safe, welcoming places for every student. No child should fear attending school or focusing on learning. Click here to support legislation that prohibits immigration enforcement operations in sensitive educational locations such as schools.
If you would like to receive action alerts like these directly from WSPTA and continue supporting public education throughout this year’s Washington State Legislative Session, click here to sign up.