Washington Administrative Code Title 250 - Student Achievement Council
Washington Administrative Code Title 250 – Student Achievement Council
Overview
WAC Title 250 governs the Washington Student Achievement Council (WSAC), which is the state agency responsible for coordinating efforts to improve educational outcomes for students in Washington. The Council focuses on enhancing postsecondary education, promoting college readiness, increasing degree attainment, and ensuring equitable access to higher education.
Purpose of the Student Achievement Council
The Council was established by the Washington State Legislature to:
Develop and implement statewide policies and strategic plans to increase student achievement in higher education.
Provide guidance and oversight for state financial aid programs.
Promote collaboration among educational institutions, government agencies, and community organizations.
Collect, analyze, and report data on education performance.
Address equity gaps and promote access for underserved populations.
Key Functions and Responsibilities in WAC Title 250
1. Statewide Higher Education Planning and Coordination
Develop and update the Statewide Strategic Plan for higher education.
Set goals for postsecondary enrollment, completion, and equity.
Coordinate with colleges, universities, and other educational agencies.
2. Student Financial Aid Administration
Administer and oversee state financial aid programs, including grants, scholarships, and loan repayment programs.
Establish eligibility criteria and award processes.
Manage program compliance and reporting.
3. Data Collection and Reporting
Collect statewide data on student achievement, enrollment, retention, and graduation.
Publish reports to inform policymakers, educators, and the public.
Use data to monitor progress toward state education goals.
4. Workforce Development and Educational Alignment
Promote alignment between education programs and workforce needs.
Support initiatives that prepare students for in-demand careers.
Collaborate with businesses and workforce agencies.
5. Equity and Access Initiatives
Identify barriers to postsecondary education for underserved groups.
Develop programs to increase access and success for low-income, minority, and first-generation college students.
Monitor equity outcomes statewide.
6. Governance and Council Operations
Establish rules for Council meetings, membership, and decision-making.
Define the roles and responsibilities of Council members and staff.
Provide for public participation and transparency.
Why WAC Title 250 Matters
It provides the framework for improving educational outcomes across the state.
Ensures that state financial resources are managed fairly and effectively.
Helps Washington meet statewide goals for increasing degree attainment and workforce readiness.
Supports equity by targeting resources and policies to close achievement gaps.
Summary Table of WAC Title 250 Core Areas
| Area | Description | Purpose/Function |
|---|---|---|
| Higher Education Planning | Statewide strategic plans and goals | Guide postsecondary system development |
| Financial Aid Programs | Administration of grants and scholarships | Provide access and affordability |
| Data and Reporting | Collect and publish education data | Inform policy and track progress |
| Workforce Alignment | Connect education to labor market | Ensure students gain marketable skills |
| Equity Initiatives | Address access gaps and disparities | Promote fairness and inclusion |
| Council Governance | Rules for Council operation | Ensure transparent and effective oversight |
RELATED Blog
0 comments