Brief Description: Regarding college-readiness standards.

Sponsors: Representatives Jarrett, Fromhold, Priest, Cox, Clibborn, Appleton, Santos and Kilmer.

Hearing Date: 1/31/06

Staff: Nina Oman (786-7152).

Background:

The Higher Education Coordinating Board (HECB) is currently responsible for developing college readiness definitions in English and science, with funding from the Legislature totaling $600,000. To date, the HECB has assembled content development teams composed of nearly 40 English and science faculty and teachers from across the state. The teams met in January 2006 and will continue their work throughout the year. Completion of college readiness definitions in English and science is anticipated for October 2006, with approval of the HECB scheduled for its meeting in December 2006.

The Transition Math Project brought together representatives from the K-12 system, the two-year college system, and the public four-year institutions of higher education. In its 2005-07 operating budget, the Legislature directed these representatives to, among other tasks, align standards and expectations for mathematics so that high school graduates will be well prepared to enter college-level math courses. The project was funded at $300,000. A report was submitted to the Legislature in December of 2005.

Summary of Bill:

The Legislature intends to change the focus of college readiness from courses and credits, to skills and abilities.

The HECB will create a description of the minimum skills and abilities necessary for students to enter and succeed in postsecondary education, with approval from the State Board of Education. The HECB will work with assistance and cooperation from the State Board for Community and Technical Colleges, the Council of Presidents, and representatives from each of the research universities, branch campuses, and regional universities.

The work will be structured so that the costs are absorbed within existing budgets.

The HECB will report to the Legislature on the progress and status of the project by March 1, 2007, including any barriers encountered in the project. The HECB will submit a final report by December 1, 2007. The final report will identify the skills and abilities necessary for students to enter and succeed in postsecondary education.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Requested on January 23, 2006.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.