Education is a critical part of Washington’s infrastructure that sustains and supports economic growth. Education and training at all levels is needed to build a workforce pipeline filled with skilled and talented individuals.

3,580 people work in Snohomish County's Education cluster. About 45 percent of workers are teachers.

Washington is home to 1,478 public elementary schools, 629 public middle schools, and 755 public high schools. In 2006 over one million students were enrolled in public K-12 schools versus over 78,600 enrolled in private schools. Over 100,000 students attend public four year colleges and universities; over 187,600 students attend public community and technical colleges.

Growth in Education was strong from 1990-2005 and is projected to be moderate and steady in the coming years.

The Education cluster focuses on

• Elementary and secondary schools
• Junior colleges
• Colleges, universities, and professional schools
• Business schools and computer and management training
• Technical and trade schools
• Other schools and instruction
• Educational support services