As the legislative session gets underway in Olympia, the stakes for Washington students are coming into sharp focus.

Lawmakers have convened at a moment when students are doing everything asked of them. They are setting goals, pursuing credentials, and preparing to contribute to Washington’s economy. The question now is whether state leaders will meet that momentum with the investments students need to succeed.

Across the state, students, families, educators, and advocates are working to keep postsecondary opportunity within reach. As the session begins, those efforts deserve strong follow-through from policymakers.

Students Are Ready. Washington Must Be Ready Too.

Over the past year, we have shared stories of students like Zari, Colton, and Rodrigo, who have big dreams for their futures. They want to earn credentials, build skills, and step into careers that support themselves, their families, and their communities.

Their stories reflect a broader reality. Washington’s economy is expected to see more than 1.5 million job openings by 2032, driven by growth and retirements. Seventy-five percent of those jobs will require education beyond high school, including degrees, apprenticeships, and industry-aligned certificates. Students understand this reality and are preparing accordingly.

The Opportunity Ahead Is Significant

Recent progress shows what is possible when barriers are removed. Financial aid completion has reached record levels and enrollment among students receiving need-based aid is rebounding.

With the legislative session now underway, decisions made in Olympia will determine whether Washington builds on recent gains or allows opportunity to slip out of reach. Postsecondary education has already absorbed significant cuts, affecting colleges, universities, and the student aid programs that help keep opportunity within reach. Further reductions would put that progress at risk.

This Is the Moment to Act

That is why the College Promise Coalition has launched a Contact Your Legislators tool. In just a few clicks, you can send a message urging lawmakers to prioritize education beyond high school so students can succeed and Washington’s economy can thrive.

When legislators hear directly from constituents, it reinforces what student stories and data already show: education beyond high school is essential to economic mobility, workforce readiness, and a strong future for our state.

Together, we can support students, strengthen our economy, and build a more equitable future for Washington.