Washington parents are watching Governor Jay H. Ferguson closely as the deadline approaches for the state to opt into a new federal education tax credit. The credit, created by the Trump administration, would make up to $1,700 per child available for tutoring, after‑school programs, or scholarships, potentially unlocking $1.5 billion in federal funds for Washington families.
Why the credit matters for Washington families
The Washington Student Success Coalition and Opt In Washington estimate that the credit could fund roughly 500,000 scholarships of $2,000 each. The Afterschool Alliance of Washington reports that more than 524,000 children in the state are currently without after‑school placement. For many of these families, the credit would provide a direct, parental‑choice tool to secure extra instructional time without creating a new state bureaucracy.
Public support is strong
Polling commissioned by the coalition shows that 72 percent of Washington residents support the state opting in, while only 14 percent oppose it. The poll sampled likely voters across the state, with a margin of error of ±3 percentage points, and reflects a clear majority that wants the money to be used for children’s education.
How the credit works
Once Washington signs the opt‑in, families can claim the credit on their federal tax returns. The credit is refundable, meaning families can receive the full amount even if they owe no tax. The money can then be directed to qualified providers of tutoring, after‑school programs, or scholarship grants, giving parents the freedom to choose the best fit for their child’s needs.
Governor Ferguson’s decision point
Washington’s deadline to opt in is Dec. 31. After that date the opportunity disappears permanently; no later legislative action can reopen it. Democratic governors in New York and Colorado have already signed the opt‑in, citing the benefit to their children. Governor Kathy Hochul of New York explicitly said she would not leave the money on the table. The same rationale applies to Washington – the party label should not block a program that directly helps children.
Addressing practical questions
Critics have asked how scholarships will be awarded, how families will learn about the credit, and how oversight will be ensured. Those are legitimate questions, but they can be answered after the state opts in. Other states have already established transparent processes for distribution and accountability, and Washington can follow the same model.
Call to action for parents
Parents can contact the governor’s office today. Jill Jackson’s ParentMap column includes a direct link for submitting a letter, and a simple phone call can convey the same message: “Governor Ferguson, please opt Washington into the federal education tax credit by Dec. 31. Do not leave the money on the table for our kids.”
Community groups, school boards, and faith‑based organizations are encouraged to share the coalition’s data and the poll results with local legislators. By showing that a solid majority of Washingtonians support the credit, advocates can help ensure the governor sees the clear public mandate.
Why this matters for every Washington child
Whether a child lives in a rural district or an urban neighborhood, the need for extra instructional time is the same. The credit does not increase taxes, create new agencies, or diminish the existing public‑school system. It simply adds a tool that lets parents direct help where it is needed most.
Washington’s children deserve the same opportunity that families in New York and Colorado already have. The window closes on Dec. 31 – the decision now rests with Governor Ferguson.
Original reporting: Clark County Today (Vancouver WA) — read the source article.
