In the Ellensburg School District, we are committed to providing every student with a challenging, engaging, and future-ready education. Washington State Learning Standards guide this work by outlining what students should know and be able to do at each grade level. These standards ensure consistent expectations across the state while giving teachers the flexibility to design meaningful learning experiences for their students.

Our instructional practices, curriculum resources, and assessment tools are aligned with these standards to support the goals outlined in our Strategic Plan—ensuring strong academic foundations, equitable access to learning, and graduating students who are prepared for college, careers, and life.

Why Learning Standards Matter

The Washington State Learning Standards help us:

• Set clear expectations for student learning in each subject area

• Provide equitable learning opportunities across classrooms and schools

• Guide curriculum decisions and instructional planning

• Support mastery learning that prepares students for a rapidly evolving world

• Help families understand what their children are learning and how to support them

The standards also connect directly to our Strategic Plan priorities, including academic excellence, critical thinking, student agency, and future readiness.

How We Use the Standards in ESD

Teachers across Ellensburg use these standards to:

• Design instruction that meets students where they are and helps them grow

• Craft meaningful learning experiences aligned to our Strategic Plan

• Support mastery-based learning and clear learning targets

• Monitor student progress through assessments and formative learning checks

• Communicate with families about what students are learning

Our work ensures that every student builds strong academic foundations and graduates prepared for success in college, careers, and life.