03/25/2026
HB 1295 is now signed into law —an important win for literacy in Washington.
This bill raises the bar by setting clearer standards for reading curriculum and strengthening teacher preparation in structured literacy—making sure instruction is aligned with what we know works to help all students become strong readers.
Huge thanks to Representative Gerry Pollet for sponsoring the bill, and to Sara Buetow (Decoding Dyslexia Washington) for the leadership and persistence to get this across the finish line.
Appreciation as well to our local legislators:
• 48th District — Senator Vandana Slatter, Representatives Osman Salahuddin and Amy Walen
• 41st District — Senator Lisa Wellman, Representatives My-Linh Thai and Janice Zahn
And thank you to Governor Bob Ferguson for signing it into law.
Also grateful to the organizations that helped drive this effort—the Washington Branch of the International Dyslexia Association, Read Washington, The Reading League Washington, the Reading Equity Project, and WA State PTA.
And a special shoutout to Kristi Schwesigner and Ava for testifying and keeping this issue front and center in Bellevue.
A meaningful step forward—and more work ahead to ensure every student becomes a confident, capable reader.
