The Private School Advisory Committee (PSAC) brings together private school leaders and departments from the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI). The group serves as an advisory voice on key issues such as instructional hours, teacher credentialing, transitional kindergarten, and alternative education pathways.
PSAC meets twice a year, and at this spring meeting, a major focus was on the future of high school graduation requirements. The State Board of Education shared that they are exploring a shift away from traditional core requirements toward more personalized pathways for students. While the last major update was in 2014, a new review process is underway, with potential additions like financial literacy, computer science, and other life skills.
Sheila Gerrish, Ombudsman for Federal Title Funds, provided guidance on ensuring equitable services for private school students and offered strategies for effective consultation with districts (as highlighted in our recent K–12 Zoom session).
The committee also received an update on the Transition to Kindergarten (TTK) program. Enrollment has grown to approximately 7,500 students, but reduced funding will scale the program back to about 5,000. Private school representatives shared the program’s impact and raised an important policy question: if public school TTK programs are not required to be licensed through DCYF, should private school programs be held to that requirement?
Finally, OSPI announced plans for its free Summer Conference for educators. While dates and topics are still forthcoming, one in-person option is expected. Last year’s conference served 490 teachers and provided more than 2,200 free clock hours—details for this year are coming soon.
Thank you to the school leaders who participate and to Debbie Schindler, the committee Chair.
