Friends,

As your state senator, I believe that every dollar we invest in education should go directly toward providing our students with the highest quality learning experience. Unfortunately, recent trends in Washington’s education system suggest that our growing investment isn’t translating into better results for our students—or for taxpayers.

Despite record funding increases for K-12 education in the last decade, we’re seeing stagnant or even declining student performance across key areas like math, reading, and science. Families and educators alike are asking a simple but critical question: Where is the money going?

A recent report on schools in Pierce County shows they have paid out nearly $52 million to settle lawsuits related to allegations spanning over a decade. While legal issues can arise in any organization, settlements of this magnitude raise serious questions about oversight and priorities. Instead of these funds being used to enhance classroom learning, support teachers, or improve resources, they are being diverted to legal costs and settlements.

Of course, every complaint deserves to be taken seriously, and it’s vital that we create safe environments for our students. But when school districts settle claims to “protect financial well-being” without full transparency, it’s the taxpayers and students who lose. Accountability matters—not just after the fact, but in preventing issues from occurring in the first place.

This is just one example of how financial mismanagement can quietly drain resources away from where they’re needed most: the classroom. As we continue to invest heavily in education, I’m committed to ensuring that those funds are spent responsibly, with a clear focus on improving student outcomes and safeguarding taxpayer dollars.

At the same time, I want to take a moment to recognize a positive step forward in our local education efforts. The recent passage of the Moses Lake school levy is a testament to the community’s commitment to supporting its students and educators. By approving this measure, voters have ensured critical funding for programs, staff, and resources that will directly benefit students. I commend the Moses Lake community for coming together to prioritize education and invest in the future of our children.

Washington’s students deserve more than just promises—they deserve results. And taxpayers deserve to know that their hard-earned money is being used wisely and transparently.