To next year’s legislative interns

March 28, 2025 | By Khanh Pham

As my internship at the State Board for Community and Technical Colleges begins comes to an end, I’ve been reflecting on what this experience has taught me. To next year’s legislative interns, I want to share a few things that I wish I knew going in; things that might help you make the most of th...

Operating budget proposals released, federal action effects heard in House higher education committee

March 28, 2025 | By SBCTC Communications

Grappling with a projected nearly $16 billion budget shortfall over the next four years, House and Senate budget writers on Monday released their versions of the 2025-27 operating budget and 2025 supplemental budget. Committees heard testimony on the proposals on Tuesday.

Education doesn’t expire

March 21, 2025 | By Isabella Flores

Education isn’t just about degrees or career advancement but about learning life lessons, passing down knowledge, and strengthening communities. That’s why Senate Bill 5110 is so important. It’s a step toward recognizing the wisdom and contributions of Tribal elders. Guaranteeing they even have t...

State Board-requested bills heard in House higher education committee

March 21, 2025 | By SBCTC Communications

House and Senate policy committees spent their first full week after the House of Origin cutoff with a mix of hearing testimony on bills and learning more about issues facing higher education in the state. The House Postsecondary Education and Workforce Committee heard all of the State Board-requ...

Customized Training Program tax extension bill passes Senate, policy committees resume work

March 14, 2025 | By SBCTC Communications

Session reached its third cutoff deadline Wednesday at 5 p.m. when bills need to be passed by their originating chamber in order to continue in the legislative process. Ahead of that, the Senate on Tuesday passed the bill that would extend the Customized Training Program's business and occupation...

Breakfast with Sen. Hansen

March 14, 2025 | By Khanh Pham

Friday morning, two weeks ago, I was at the Washington Association of Community and Technical Colleges (WACTC) presidents’ meeting, balancing a plate of breakfast food, when I noticed an open seat next to Sen. Drew Hansen.

Higher education in uncertain times

March 7, 2025 | By Isabella Flores

Higher education is going through a lot of changes right now, and for students like me, it’s hard not to feel the impact. Costs are rising, financial aid policies are shifting, and access to education feels more uncertain.

State Board-requested high school diploma tuition waiver bills pass House and Senate

March 7, 2025 | By SBCTC Communications

Members of the House and Senate spent the week on the floor debating and voting on bills to pass to the opposite chamber for its consideration. Both versions of State Board-requested legislation to remove the age limit for a tuition waiver for students pursuing a high school diploma at a communit...