Education

State Superintendent of Public Instruction Chris Reykdal has unveiled a proposal for a "millionaire's tax," aimed at generating revenue to address key affordability issues in Washington. The plan includes funding for two years of free tuition at public universities, universal school meals, enhanced K-12 education funding, and the removal of state property taxes on the first $300,000 of home value.

The Wallace Foundation has allocated multi-year grants to eight major urban school districts to cultivate equity-focused school leaders and establish a supportive framework to ensure their success.

The U.S. Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights, under the Trump administration, dismissed nearly 90% of discrimination complaints received last year, a move that may have cost taxpayers up to $38 million in salaries and benefits for employees placed on administrative leave.

Ben Shuldiner has been appointed as the new Superintendent of Seattle Public Schools and has pledged to make the district a national model of excellence, while also addressing the challenges of budget deficits, declining enrollment, and safety concerns.

The Zinn Education Project provides educators with complimentary resources to teach Black history with depth and integrity. These resources include comprehensive lessons, literature, interactive workshops, and collaborative study groups, all aimed at fostering a nuanced and urgent understanding of Black history.

Kai Cenat, a prominent Twitch streamer, has embarked on a mission to read books aloud on camera, aiming to serve as a role model for Black schoolchildren facing literacy challenges and to inspire K-12 students nationwide.

In a significant legal development, the Trump administration has retracted its appeal against a federal court decision that prevented the government from withholding federal funds from educational institutions advocating for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. This action affirms the ruling by a Maryland federal judge, which determined that the administration's attempt contravened the First Amendment.

A recent survey by the United Negro College Fund reveals that more than 60% of high school students possess limited awareness of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), while a mere 36% frequently engage in discussions about pursuing higher education.

A recent report by the Common Application reveals an 11% increase in college applications from Black or African American students in the United States for fall 2025, marking them as the fastest-growing demographic among first-year applicants.

Community members gathered at Garfield High School to discuss racial disparities in student achievement and call for urgent action to address the achievement gaps between Black and Brown students and their peers.