Since its launch in 1996, K-20 has connected schools, colleges, universities, libraries, and other education partners across the state. Over the past three decades, the network has grown and evolved alongside the institutions and communities it serves.
The technology has changed significantly along the way. K-20 began with connections that included partial T1 circuits and has grown into a modern network supporting 100 Gigabit connections. This evolution reflects the tremendous changes in how technology supports education, communication, research, and collaboration. Through those changes, K-20’s purpose has remained consistent: providing Washington’s education community with reliable connectivity and the infrastructure needed to support teaching, learning, research, collaboration, and access to digital resources.
This 30-year milestone is also an opportunity to recognize the many people and organizations that have contributed to the network over the years. K-20’s success has depended on the work of technical teams, education partners, state agencies, service providers, and the institutions that use the network every day.
A particularly important part of that story is the University of Washington’s engineering and operations teams. Their technical expertise, commitment, and ongoing support have been instrumental in operating, maintaining, and advancing the K-20 network. Behind the connectivity institutions rely on every day is the work of engineers and operations professionals who maintain critical infrastructure, respond to challenges, support network improvements, and help K-20 evolve alongside changing technology and the needs of Washington’s education community. Their partnership and stewardship have been essential to the network’s success and longevity.
As we reflect on three decades of service, we are grateful for the partnerships that have helped K-20 grow, adapt, and continue meeting the changing needs of Washington education. We look forward to continuing that work together in the years ahead.
