Washington’s public schools serve over 1.1 million students, and the state is responsible for funding the public education of each of those students. Although there are variances across school districts and grade levels, the state spent an average of $11,500 per student in basic education funding in 2019. On top of basic education funding, school districts can apply for state, federal, and local grants; receive targeted funding for specific purposes, such as school improvement; or raise levy funds within their local community. This page contains information about how schools are funded, available grants, the policies that drive school funding and operations, and more.
