About the Strategic Action Plan
The 2026 Strategic Action Plan identifies key state policies to increase educational attainment.
The plan includes a summary of our current state policy environment and a work plan for the Council, partners, and stakeholders to take on over a two-year cycle. Informed by diverse stakeholders throughout the state, the Strategic Action Plan identifies Washington’s strengths and opportunities for improvement in a four-part strategic framework: affordability, enrollment, basic needs, and completion.
The framework is built upon the belief that an affordable and supportive educational environment will encourage more Washingtonians to enroll in programs and complete credentials. Ensuring equitable access and success for all students is central to the strategic framework.
The Strategic Action Plan is not an agency-specific document that addresses only WSAC programs and initiatives. It is meant to be the state’s policy built through the Council’s work to engage a wide range of partners and stakeholders to forge a consensus for state action. The SAP includes a summary of our current state policy environment and a work plan for the Council, partners, and stakeholders to take on over a two-year cycle.
Stakeholder Engagement Sessions
Like many other states, Washington has a postsecondary educational attainment goal for its adult population that is aligned with projected labor market demand: 70 percent of adults ages 25 to 44 should earn a postsecondary credential, inclusive of associate and bachelor’s degrees, as well as short-term credentials like certificates or industry-recognized credentials. With Washington’s current postsecondary educational attainment rate at 61%, WSAC seeks your input as we develop policy recommendations for the Council to consider ahead of the 2026 legislative session.
On July 8 and 10, 2025, WSAC hosted stakeholder engagement sessions, welcoming over 150 stakeholders from K-12, community organizations, student leaders, higher education, labor, workforce, and beyond, to discuss state policy and initiatives.
Session Materials: Slide Deck
Please reach out to the Strategy and Partnerships Team if you would like to discuss proposals and other policy and practice opportunities: StrategyAndPartnerships@wsac.wa.gov.