Washington's 1993 Basic Education Act defines Essential Academic Learning Requirements (EALRs) as what “students need to know and be able to do”. In recent years, Washington has shifted to using the overarching term “learning standards” instead of EALRs.
The legislature shall provide for a general and uniform system of public schools. The public school system shall include common schools, and such high schools, normal schools, and technical schools as may hereafter be established.
Washington State Law RCW 28A. 225.010 requires, with some exceptions, that all children between the ages of 8 and 18 are required to attend school every day when school is in session.
The International Standard Classification of Education (ISCED) states that basic education corresponds to the first nine years of formal schooling and is made up of two levels. Level 1 is primary education (usually six years) and Level 2 refers to lower secondary (usually three years; grades 7-9).
A state law in Washington, called the “Becca Bill,” requires all children between ages 8 and 18 to attend school regularly. The law requires parents or legal guardians to make sure their children are in school regularly. Students can be in public school, private school or homeschool.
Washington State Legislature specifies rooms should be heated to at least 65 degrees except for gymnasiums which should be heated to at least 60 degrees.
The measure was designed to have a set limit of students per class, based on grade level. For kindergarten through third grade, each class was required to have no more than 15 to 17 students. In grades 4 through 12, each class was required to have no more than 22 to 25 students.
Washington's truancy law, often termed “The Becca Bill,” is intended to stop truancy before it becomes a problem. The law requires only one thing of students: attend school. If a student does not attend school, the law requires the school district to take action. One (1) or Two (2) Unexcused Absences.
Private and independent K-12 schools must meet reasonable standards to ensure the health and safety of all students. Private schools are approved by the Washington State Board of Education and must have a health and safety inspection of the school buildings (including classrooms, portables, and playgrounds).
The goal of Washington's K–12 education system is to prepare every student for postsecondary pathways, careers, and civic engagement. Led by Superintendent Chris Reykdal, OSPI is the primary agency charged with overseeing public K–12 education in Washington state.