Legislative Updates
On May 19th, Governor Ferguson signed the special education funding bill into law. E2SSB 5263 creates a single K–12 multiplier of 1.16 and removes the enrollment cap. The Early Support for Infants and Toddlers (ESIT) multiplier for children ages birth to three is increased to match the PreK multiplier of 1.2, which remains unchanged. Local Educational Agencies (LEAs) can use the Multi-year Budget Comparison Tool on the Budget Preparations site to project funding. Additional guidance will be forthcoming related to Safety Net changes and special education accounting practices.
Governor Ferguson also signed SSB 5253 into law, which extends special education services to students with disabilities until the end of the school year in which the student turns 22 years of age. SSB 5253 goes into effect during the 2025–26 school year.
If you have questions about anything legislature-related, please contact OSPI Special Education with the subject line "Legislative Session."
Lastly, we encourage you to watch the short video below for more insights into the legislature’s investment in special education and its impact on students and schools.
Integrated MTSS Conference
July 30–August 1, 2025 | Wenatchee, WA
Join us in Wenatchee, WA, from July 30th to August 1st, for a highly engaging experience with colleagues around the state leading implementation supported by MTSS. Our theme this year is Innovate, Include, Inspire: Transforming Whole Child Education. You can come expecting keynotes and over 40 different breakout sessions aligned with our theme and subtheme:
Innovate: Reimagining MTSS for Today's Schools
- Creative problem-solving in tiered interventions
- Leveraging technology to enhance student support
- Integrating MTSS to meet evolving student needs
Include: Building Equitable Systems for Every Learner
- Addressing disproportionality in student outcomes
- Strengthening inclusion in academic and behavioral supports
- Enhancing family and community partnerships in MTSS
Inspire: Leading MTSS with Purpose and Passion
- Supporting staff to sustain MTSS implementation
- Developing a culture of collaboration and shared leadership
- Celebrating success stories in student growth
To learn more, visit the 2025 Integrated MTSS Conference website.
Nonpublic Agency (NPA) Annual Renewal Application Form Due June 30th (Repeat)
The Nonpublic Agency (NPA) Annual Renewal Application for 2025 is now available on the OSPI NPA webpage. All schools/facilities currently on the authorized NPA list should complete this annual renewal application form by June 30th. As a reminder, at least one public school district with a student placed at an authorized NPA will be expected to complete an annual onsite visit and submit a report of that visit to OSPI. A fillable Annual NPA Onsite Visit Report form is also now available on the OSPI NPA webpage for use by school districts. Any school district with a current placement at an NPA can complete the annual onsite visit for 2025. Please contact Scott Raub at OSPI directly at npas@k12.wa.us with questions or for additional information.
The Significance of Juneteenth
Juneteenth, observed on June 19th, marks the day in 1865 when enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, were informed of their freedom—more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed. It symbolizes the end of slavery in the United States and serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for racial justice and equality. We commemorate Juneteenth to honor the resilience of Black Americans, reflect on our nation's history, and continue the work toward a more just and inclusive society. For more information and ways to observe the day meaningfully, you can explore resources and toolkits from Juneteenth.com, the National Museum of African American History and Culture, and Racial Equity Tools.
Pride Month
Pride Month, celebrated every June, honors the LGBTQ+ community and commemorates the 1969 Stonewall Uprising in New York City, a pivotal moment in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights. It is a time to recognize the struggles and achievements of LGBTQ+ individuals, promote equality, and celebrate love and identity in all its forms. Pride Month also serves as a reminder of the importance of visibility, inclusion, and continuing the work toward a world free from discrimination and prejudice. For educational materials, event ideas, and support tools, you can explore resources from GLAAD, the Human Rights Campaign, and The Trevor Project.
Click here for this month's Program Improvement updates on the following topics:
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Updated New Special Education Parent Survey – Statewide Implementation Starting in 2025–26
- OSPI Special Education Data, Fiscal, and Program Office Hours
- Upcoming Changes to the Annual IDEA Determinations and the Correction of Non-Compliance (EGMS Form Package 442) – Repeat
Click here for this month’s Fiscal & Data updates on the following topics:
- June Safety Net Conditional Award Meeting
- Data Reporting for Students with IEPs: End of Year Federal Special Education Data Reporting – Repeat
Click here for this month’s ECSE updates on the following topics:
- Washington and Idaho Lead the Way in SSIP Implementation
- aRPy Ambassadors Strengthen State Systems through Professional Development and Mentoring
- Transition to Kindergarten (TK) Office Hours
- 2025 Northwest Early Learning and Pyramid Summit Registration is Open
- Division for Early Childhood’s 41st Annual International Conference on Young Children with Disabilities and Their Families
Be sure to check out past tips and the latest additions to the Policy Guidance and Resources page of the OSPI Special Education website.
Gearing Up for Summer
What should districts be thinking about in preparation for summer break and in planning for the start of the next school year?
Tip of the Month!
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