The bill aims to enhance cultural expression for public school students during high school graduation ceremonies by allowing them to wear items or objects of cultural significance alongside their gowns. It recognizes the importance of graduation as a milestone in students' lives and seeks to acknowledge their diverse identities and traditions. The legislation emphasizes the need for parity among cultural groups, ensuring that all students have the opportunity to express their cultural pride during these significant events.

To implement this, a new section is added to chapter 28A.600 RCW, mandating that school districts permit students to wear culturally significant items at graduations, provided they adhere to the ceremony's decorum requirements. The bill clarifies that this policy applies to charter schools and state-tribal education compact schools as well. However, it also maintains the authority of school districts to prohibit items that may cause substantial disruption during the ceremonies, ensuring a balance between cultural expression and the orderly conduct of events.