The State Board of Education is one of the oldest institutions of Washington State government.  It has operated continuously since 1877, when it was created by the Legislature of the Territory of Washington.

The purpose of the Washington State Board of Education is to provide advocacy and strategic oversight of public education; implement a standards-based accountability system to improve student academic achievement; provide leadership in the creation of a system that personalizes education for each student and respects diverse cultures, abilities, and learning styles; and promote achievement of the Basic Education Act goals of RCW 28A.150.210.