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. Washington is home to 1,493 public elementary schools, 638 public middle schools, and 774 public high schools. In 2008, over one million students were enrolled in public K-12 schools versus over 85,000 enrolled in private schools. Over 100,000 students attend public 4-year colleges and universities; over 187,600 students attend public community and technical colleges.

3,000 people work in Snohomish County's Education cluster. Employment within the cluster grew 25% from 2002 and remained stable since 2008. Almost half of employees in Education are teachers.

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
• Community colleges, colleges, universities, and professional schools
• Business schools and computer and management training
• Technical and trade schools
• Other schools and instruction
• Educational support services