The IMPACT

Chris Reykdal and David Olson are candidates vying for the leadership of Washington's public school systems, with a combined focus on education reform and student advocacy. They delve into urgent topics like revamping public education funding, emphasizing mental health resources and the challenges of school privatization. The discussion reveals concerning student testing scores and calls for accountability in educational leadership, all while promoting skilled trades as valuable career pathways. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone invested in the future of education!

An overview of the state's new cold case unit devoted to cases involving missing or murdered indigenous people. Then a look at a unique job opportunity for young adults to work on environmental projects. Guests: Chief Investigator Brian George, MMIWP Cold Case Unit and Rebecca Benjamin, Director of the Washington Conservation Corps

A look at what's new for Washington State Parks this summer, perennial favorite destinations, and tips for planning the best visit possible. We'll also highlight the work of the state agency which funds outdoor recreation projects of all sizes and a program to help disadvantaged kids experience the best of the outdoors in Washington.

A dispute over the water rights controlled by a soon to be shuttered power plant highlight the competing needs of at-risk fish and growing communities. Interviews: Centralia Public Works Manager Kim Ashmore and Earthjustice Attorney Janette Brimmer.

An overview of 2023 highway fatality trends with Washington Traffic Safety Commission Director Shelly Baldwin. Plus, a look at new legislation that expands the authority of local governments to use ticketing cameras to regulate intersections and enforce speed limits.

Ten years after the first charter school in Washington opened its doors in Seattle, a look at the tumultuous early steps and the most recent report card for charters. Guest: Jessica de Barros, Executive Director of the Washington Charter School Commission

An election focused panel discussion covering the contests to watch, the implications of redistricting, a wave of retirements, and a slate of ballot initiatives. Guests: Paul Queary, The Washington Observer and Jerry Cornfield, the Washington State Standard

A one-on-one sit down with Assistant Secretary Steve Nevey, the new head of Washington State Ferries, about his plans for the nation's largest ferry fleet and a system struggling with limited staff, mechanical problems, and construction delays for new ferries.

A detailed look at the forest wrecking caterpillars behind an emergency eradication campaign. Then a broad overview of efforts to stop invasive threats of all shapes and sizes, from plants that can cause serious sunburns to mussels that create a razor sharp blanket of shells. Q&A with Sven Spichiger, Pest Program Manager, Plant Protection Division, Washington State Department of Agriculture & Stephanie Helms, Executive Coordinator for the Washington State Invasive Species Council.

Why hospitals are hemorrhaging money, the Medicaid/long-term care conundrum, the consolidation debate, and the implications for healthcare delivery in Washington. Guest: Cassie Sauer, President and CEO of the Washington State Hospital Association