WFIS

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Honoring Stephen Dinger

October 15, 1950 – October 28, 2024

WFIS mourns the passing of Stephen Dinger, a devoted leader, educator, and advocate whose life’s work empowered young minds and enriched communities. Serving as Executive Director of the Washington Federation of Independent Schools from 1995 to 2003, Stephen led with vision, passion, and a profound dedication to children and their future. His efforts continue to shape WFIS and the broader landscape of private education in Washington State.


Stephen’s career spanned a remarkable journey through education, including his role as President of Bakersfield Christian High School from 2011 to 2016. He was a beloved teacher and administrator who prioritized the needs of children and inspired those around him. His commitment to education was further demonstrated in his own academic achievements, having earned a Master’s in Educational Leadership from Seattle Pacific University. With a warm heart and an unwavering belief in the power of education, Stephen advocated for children as the enduring hope for a better tomorrow.


WFIS extends heartfelt condolences to Stephen’s family, friends, and all who had the honor of knowing him. We honor Stephen’s remarkable contributions to private education and his enduring legacy of advocacy and compassion, which will continue to inspire our work and our mission.

State CAPE Network met in Lincoln, Nebraska, this summer to exchange best advocacy practices, catch up on legislation coming our way, and share ideas to support private education.

A look at what is impacting private schools.

WFIS Advocate Spring 2024 private school news in WA State May 2024 The Advocate strengthening independent education in Washington Dear Friends of Private Schools, I am grateful for your support of our advocacy work in Olympia

Current news and advocacy for WA private K12 education

WFIS Advocate Winter 2024 private school news in WA State February 2024 The Advocate strengthening independent education in Washington Dear Friends of Private Schools, WFIS continues to impact education policy in Olympia, wor

WFIS Advocate March 2023: private school news in WA State

WFIS Advocate March 2023: private school news in WA State March 2023 The Advocate strengthening independent education in Washington Dear Friends, Students and families demonstrate their support of educational systems that meet individual student needs beyon

New school guidance as of July 29. Masks required at school. Another COVID- impacted start to the school year, but we got this!! Private schools did a great job last year and they’ll do the same this year!

Are you a private or independent K12 school leader in WA State? Don't miss this essential training for school administration! Talking Heads with Schwartz Hannum on June 28 will clarify regulations and legal obligations, improve your school documentation and protocols, and fill in the blanks on critical yet complicated areas of private school management. Details and registration info at

WFIS Events - WFIS Educator Opportunties Throughout the year, WFIS and our partner organizations present training events to provide deep-dive focus on a variety of issues that are of particular relevance to private school teachers, administrators and staff. See past events below: Legal Insight on School Oversight for....

Legal Insight on School Oversight for private school leaders

Legal Insight on School Oversight for private school leaders private school principals & superintendents Talking Heads In Washington: Hot Topics And Best Practices In Employee And Student Risk Management with Sara Goldsmith Schwartz & Associates This essential

Annual Private School Approval deadline April 16

Annual Private School Approval deadline April 16 Important: required for All Private Schools in WA State Board of Education Private School Approval The Annual Private School Approval Application for schools to operate in the 2021-2022 school year ha

Look here for a career opportunity in education:

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