Research has shown that most Washington students graduate high school and find jobs within 50 miles of where they grew up. But if their region has limited career-connected learning opportunities, local employers must recruit their workforce from outside the region. Washington STEM is partnering with schools and industry to provide more opportunities for students.

After a statewide nomination process, Washington STEM is honoring the recipients of the 2024 Legislator of the Year award: Senator T'wina Nobles (28th District) and Representative Alex Ybarra (13th District).

Although Washington has one of the highest concentrations of jobs requiring STEM literacy, less than half of 9th graders (40%) will go on to enroll in an apprenticeship or a 1-, 2- or 4-year credential program after graduation. Key factors that increase postsecondary enrollment include dual credit programs, completing federal and state financial aid applications, and a comprehensive approach to student advising. Washington STEM’s High School to Postsecondary (“H2P”) Collaborative is a group of regional leaders and 40+ high schools across the state who aim to improve postsecondary pathways for students across the state. They do this by using high school course-taking data, postsecondary enrollment data, student and staff surveys, and student listening sessions to improve supports for students to pursue their post-high school dreams, often in high-demand STEM careers.

A new University of Washington report schedule to be published later this month, is shedding light on the relationship between teacher turnover in Washington state and the working conditions that support well-being. Hint: it’s mostly about relationships.