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Every few weeks the State Board of Education will highlight members of the FutureReady Task Force. This group is working to update Washington’s graduation requirements to better prepare students to thrive in a changing future.
The Task Force brings together approximately 30 members representing students and families, community-based organizations, K-12 education, post-secondary education, employers, and policymakers. In identifying task force members, the Board prioritized geographic diversity, representation from various learning environments, and voices from communities that have been historically underserved by the education system. The goal was to include those most affected by graduation policies and those who have traditionally been excluded from policy development.
In this first installment, we are highlighting Kiera O’Brien, a high school English language arts and multilingual learner teacher with Vancouver Public Schools. She brings over 12 years of K–12 education experience to the Task Force’s work and discussions.
Can you tell us a little bit about who you are and what perspectives and priorities you’re bringing to the Task Force’s conversations?
Hi there, I'm Kiera, a high school Spanish, English and English learner teacher in the Vancouver School District. I’m also a member of the Future Ready Task Force.
Since I’ve worked in alternative education, general education, and with English learners, I've seen how Washington students really need more flexibility and options in high school. They just have a lot on their plates from home life to work life, and they're seeking more options. So in addition to that, we also want them to graduate fully prepared for life after high school, whether that's the workforce, trades or a four-year college.
What are some of the things the Task Force has been talking about that excites you?
One of the most valuable things that I think the FutureReady Task Force has been able to do is to really listen to community and student voices and then bring that to the table so that when we send the proposal to the legislature in 2027, we have the opportunity to truly represent Washington students with the new graduation requirements.
[We’ve discussed] financial education being part of all high school education. Another is giving students an opportunity for mastery-based credit instead of seat-based course credits. [We’re also talking about] providing more ways for students to leverage their language assets for credit.
I’m also excited that we’re looking at how current graduation requirements can be adapted so that students have space to explore their interests and career paths and really hone in on their life goals.
How Can You Get Involved?
Whether you're a student, parent, educator, employer, or community member, your input is invaluable. There will be opportunities for public comment and feedback throughout the process. Here are a few ways you can stay up-to-date on what we’re working on!
Give a Public Comment
Have something you want to say? Comments submitted using this form will be shared the Board and may be publicly posted.
FutureReady Newsletter
This is the best way to receive updates on the initiative and be the first to hear about important announcements — including listening sessions.