Washington State Education Self-Determination
Legal Landscape and Funding Mechanisms for Alternative Education
This is a summary. The full paper is available with complete citations.
Key Findings
Alternative Learning Experience (ALE) Programs
Washington’s ALE framework (RCW 28A.232, WAC 392-550) allows families to access public education funding while directing their own learning:
- 180 instruction days/year required
- 11 required subject areas
- Written student learning plans with certificated teacher involvement
- Assessment and progress monitoring
Parent Partnership Programs
PPPs operate as public school programs that serve homeschool and alternative education families:
- Families receive MSOC allocation: $1,614.28/student for materials and supplies
- Statewide per-pupil spending average: $19,603
- Programs include: Snoqualmie Valley, Cascade/Seattle, Meadowbrook, Northshore, Bellevue, Puyallup, Yakima, Central Kitsap
TEK8 as ALE Curriculum
The TEK8 framework satisfies all required subject areas through its 8-petal structure:
- Each petal maps to an IB Area of Knowledge
- The Crystal Cycle provides daily structure meeting instructional time requirements
- Garden-based education satisfies science, math, and environmental requirements simultaneously
Full document: Read Full Paper
Preliminary Draft — Open for Review
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