CELEBRATE AWSL'S 70TH YEAR ANNIVERSARY

Educational
Advocacy Summit

Association of Washington Student Leaders

Day 1 • In Person
Feb 13, 2026
Olympia, WA
Day 2 • Virtual
Feb 14, 2026
Online (Zoom)

Why This Summit Matters

Addressing a critical gap in civic education and youth engagement across Washington State

33%

of students could correctly match the three branches of government to their core functions in a 2022 National Assessment of Educational Progress test

50%

of young people say they were taught how to register to vote, while 64% report being encouraged to vote in high school

<20%

of Americans surveyed could name their state legislators

40%

In a survey of adults, only 40% could name the three branches of government

~50%

About half of respondents couldn't say if their state had a one- or two-house legislature

Washington State Capitol Building

Our Goal

Bring students together across Washington State to strengthen civic education and youth voice. Through hands-on experiences at the Capitol and interactive virtual sessions, we empower the next generation of informed, engaged citizens and leaders.

Choose Your Experience

Whether you join us in person or virtually, you'll gain valuable insights into government and civic engagement

Legislative Chamber

In-Person Experience

February 13, 2026 • Washington State Capitol

  • Meet & lobby with legislators and students across Washington
  • Guided Capitol tours to learn state government functions
  • Mock legislative sessions where you draft and present bills
  • Special sessions with Senators and House Speakers
  • Network with student leaders from across the state
  • Bring your voice & vision to shape civic education policy
View In-Person Schedule

Virtual Experience

February 14, 2026 • Online via Zoom

  • Join from anywhere in Washington State
  • Interactive workshops on democracy, advocacy, and leadership
  • Virtual legislative panels - connect directly with legislators
  • Breakout room discussions with fellow students statewide
  • Keynote speakers and alumni success stories
  • Learn about civic engagement from home
View Virtual Schedule
Lieutenant Governor Denny Heck speaking with students

Students engage with Washington State leaders

Learn from State Leaders

Get exclusive access to Washington State legislators, elected officials, and civic leaders who are passionate about empowering the next generation.

Direct Interaction

Ask questions and engage in meaningful conversations with elected officials

Real-World Insights

Learn how legislation is created and how you can influence policy

Career Pathways

Explore opportunities in public service, law, and civic leadership

"We're committed to supporting the next generation of civic leaders. Your voice matters in shaping the future of Washington State."

Register for the Summit

Secure your spot at the Educational Advocacy Summit and join student leaders across Washington State

📅

Choose Your Day

Attend in-person on Feb 13th, join virtually on Feb 14th, or participate in both days

🎓

For High School Students

Open to all Washington State high school students passionate about civic education

No Experience Required

Just bring your voice, vision, and desire to make a difference

Questions about registration?

Support the Summit

Help us bring civic education to students across Washington State

Capitol Rotunda

We're Looking For

Legislative Partners

A legislator to speak at the event and help reserve presentation space

Sponsorship Support

Organizations to help fund transportation, meals, and educational materials

Community Partners

Organizations to host workshops, exhibit, and connect with student leaders

Sponsorship Benefits

  • Workshop Opportunity: Host a session on your organization's work and mission
  • Exhibitor Table: Share information and connect with student leaders statewide
  • Organization Recognition: Placement on summit materials and promotional content
  • Direct Access: Network with students, educators, and policymakers

Interested in partnering with us?