The Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) works with the Washington State Department of Health (DOH) and other education and public health partners on the implementation of medically accurate, inclusive comprehensive sexual health education (CSHE) in Washington schools. This includes annually reviewing CSHE instructional materials for consistency with state requirements, posting resources on our website (including guidance, model policies, and lists of instructional materials that are consistent with legislative requirements), and providing technical assistance and professional development on delivering CSHE in line with requirements and best practices.
OSPI Reports to the Legislature
The State Legislature assigns work to OSPI through legislation. Sometimes, the assigned work concludes in a report back to the Legislature describing what OSPI has done, data collected, next steps, and at times, recommendations.
Reports going back to 2020 are included below. If the report title says "Update," it means the Legislature requires OSPI to submit more than one report on the topic.
2025
In 2022, the Washington state Legislature passed Second Substitute House Bill 2078 (SHB 2078) to establish the Establishing the Outdoor School for All Program. This initiative aims to enhance outdoor educational experiences for students in Washington public schools. The program aims to foster a connection with nature, enhance educational outcomes, and contribute to the overall well-being and future success of its participants.
Authorizing legislation: RCW 28A.300.793 , RCW 28A.300.795
Safety Net funding is available to Local Education Agencies (LEAs) that demonstrate need for additional special education funding. The Legislature requires OSPI to annually survey LEAs about their satisfaction with the Safety Net process
Authorizing legislation: RCW 28A.150.392
As part of the 2024 supplemental budget, the Washington State Legislature added a requirement that each local education agency (LEA) report to OSPI, by November 1, 2024, on the LEA’s expenditures relating to special education.
Authorizing legislation: Senate Bill 5950. Sec 509 (16) (2024)
Washington students in Juvenile Rehabilitation (JR) facilities have had limited opportunities to access the education necessary for making life-changing academic progress and to receive the supports needed to successfully reenter their community and connect with education and employment opportunities following incarceration. In 2023, Substitute House Bill (SHB) 1701 was passed by the legislature with the intent of focusing attention on the Institutional Education governance structure and funding model. Under SHB 1701, OSPI is responsible for the development of a timeline and plan for assuming the above responsibilities of SHB 1701 as well as annual interim reports.
Authorizing legislation: RCW 28A.300.850
A report on Native Education in Washington state. The report provides a brief overview of Tribal history in Washington. It also discusses the role of the Office of Native Education (ONE), the work ONE is doing to connect with students and communities, implementation of the John McCoy (lulilaš) Since Time Immemorial curriculum, and future opportunities to support Native Education in Washington.
Authorizing legislation: RCW 28A.300.105