Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Office of the Education Ombudsman (OEO)?

OEO is a small agency in the Governor’s Office, which operates independently of the public education system. OEO was established by House Bill 3127 and approved by the Washington State Legislature in 2006.

What is OEO’s vision and mission?

Our vision is that Washington State families, students, and communities will become empowered partners in a responsive, accountable, and equitable education system focused on student academic success. Our mission is to promote equity in education and the academic success of all students attending elementary and secondary public schools in the state of Washington.

What does OEO do?

OEO provides information about the elementary and secondary public education system, promotes family and community involvement in education, and offers assistance to families and students to resolve conflict with schools and school districts.

OEO is also provides valuable information to policymakers. OEO collects data from inquiries and complaints to identify issues and patterns within the K-12th education system. OEO puts this information in an annual report to the Governor, Legislature, and State Board of Education with recommendations to improve the public education system for all students.

How does the OEO work with complaints?

OEO accepts written complaints from parents, legal guardians and students in elementary and secondary schools who are experiencing conflict with a school or school district. An Education Ombudsman is assigned to work with the parent or student, and the school involved in the conflict. The Education Ombudsman works with all parties, gathers information, identifies options and makes recommendations to achieve a resolution that will positively affect the learning environment or academic success of the student.

Is contact with OEO confidential?

Individuals who contact OEO are able to speak in confidence. OEO is required by law to keep names and information received from students and parents confidential. OEO can only share such information with written permission. OEO requests written permission to use student and parent names when contacting school personnel during the process of resolving a complaint.

What authority does OEO have?

OEO does not have authority to force schools or school districts to follow recommendations, or to supervise, discipline or terminate school personnel. Education Ombudsmen does not have the authority to remove elected officials from public office.

What does the word “Ombudsman” mean?

The Swedish word “Ombudsman” means, a public official appointed to receive complaints against government. The first public sector “Ombudsman” was appointed by the Swedish parliament in 1809. The concept came to the United States in the 1960’s. The title “Ombudsman” is gender-neutral, and is used by both men and women.

What is an Education Ombudsman?

An Education Ombudsman is a neutral problem solver who helps students and families understand how the Washington State K-12th public education system works.

What do Education Ombudsmen do?

Education Ombudsmen provide information about elementary and secondary education, help parents and students understand how to get their needs met, and what they can do when conflict occurs. Education Ombudsmen listen, inform, identify options, and recommend solutions.

Are Education Ombudsmen advocates?

Education Ombudsmen are not advocates for any particular individual. Education Ombudsmen advocate for fair and equitable processes that support students’ academic success.