In this issue: World Teachers' Day, Events in Tri-Cities, Partnership with City of Seattle, Federal Scholarship Tax Credit

October 5, 2026

Each Insider edition brings together stories of impact, meaningful connections, and news worth sharing—keeping you informed, inspired, and InvestED in the work we do together for Washington students.

Teachers Notice. You Make it Possible to Act.

Every InvestED story starts the same way: a teacher, counselor, or school staff member notices a student in need.

A student who stops showing up. Shoes that no longer fit. An activity they want to join but can’t afford. A student quietly falling behind.

What happens next is up to you. Your gifts mean that educators who notice the need don't have to say "I wish I could help." They can act.

Today is World Teachers' Day and we're dedicating this month's newsletter to Washington state teachers and school staff who go above and beyond for their students every day.

"Our student was struggling with dressing for and participating in PE class. His Spanish teacher reached out to the office to purchase new workout clothes that would fit and be his own. Thanks to InvestED funds, we could provide them." - Oroville School District

Across 668 partner schools, your gifts put flexible funds directly in the hands of educators who know their students personally. And the need is growing: 100% of our partner schools tell us they need more funding to support their students.

Honor a teacher who made a difference for you or your family. Make a gift in their name, and we'll let them know they inspired it.

Help Teachers Act

Student Impact Spotlight:

Finding belonging through sports

An incoming freshman in Benton County had one goal for high school: make new friends by playing the sport she loved.

But before she could try out, she needed a sports physical, and her family couldn't afford it.

InvestED funds paid for the physical she needed to participate. She turned in every form on time, tried out, and made the team.

Her school says she was excited for the season, but most excited about the new friends and new memories ahead.

The barrier: a sports physical.

What it unlocked: a team, friendships, and a stronger sense of belonging at school.

Thanks to you, she started high school already belonging.

-Benton County High School

A sense of belonging is an important predictor of a student graduating high school on time.

Thank you for making stories like this possible.

Tri-Cities, join us for two FREE events this October!

Wine Get-together (Richland, WA)

Wednesday, October 14, 5:30-7:00 PM

Building Brighter Futures Breakfast (Kennewick, WA)

Thursday, October 15, 8:00-9:00 AM

Details & RSVP here!

Connect with others who care about supporting students in Washington, and learn more about how InvestED is helping students in Central and Southeast Washington (and throughout the state) overcome financial barriers and stay engaged in school.

A Year of Partnership with the City of Seattle

When the City of Seattle set out to strengthen safety and stability for students, they chose InvestED to help get resources into the hands of the families who needed them most.

Last school year, that partnership meant additional funds sent directly to nine Seattle Public Schools—reaching 7,946 students with extra support for food, clothing, housing, and utility assistance. It's what happens when a city, its schools, and a trust-based nonprofit work together without red tape standing between a student and what they need.

What We're Watching: Will Washington opt in to a new federal tax credit?

A new federal law created the Federal Scholarship Tax Credit (FSTC) for donations to approved scholarship organizations that help K–12 students with education costs.

States must opt in to take part. Governor Ferguson is weighing multiple perspectives as he considers whether or not to opt Washington in.

InvestED has been part of conversations about how this credit could benefit public school students. Stay tuned for more updates.

We're hiring: Development & Communications Manager

InvestED is looking for a Development & Communications Manager who loves making things happen — from grants and fundraising to events, sponsorships, storytelling, and the systems that keep it all running smoothly.

If you’re a strong communicator, an organized doer, and excited to take real ownership on a small, collaborative team, we’d love to hear from you.

Apply here

More Ways to Help Keep Students in School

Leave a legacy: The third week of October is National Estate Planning Awareness Week, a good reminder to put your plans in writing.

Naming InvestED in your will or as a beneficiary of a retirement account or life insurance policy is a powerful way to ensure future generations of students have the support they need to stay in school, helping to change countless young lives.

Learn about legacy giving. (Already included us in your estate plans? Thank you!...Please let us know at the link!)

Give monthly: Make your impact last all year. A recurring gift provides reliable support schools can count on. Support students year-round with a monthly gift.

Double your gift: Many Washington employers match employee donations. Ask your HR department if your company matches gifts. Questions? Email rachel@InvestED.org.

Thank you for making a difference in the lives of Washington students!

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