SB 5955-S2 - DIGEST
(DIGEST AS ENACTED)

Addresses provisions concerning educator preparation, professional development, and compensation.

Implements the Washington state leadership academy.

Provides that the office of the superintendent of public instruction shall: (1) Create partnerships with the educational service districts or public or private institutions of higher education with approved educator preparation programs to develop and deliver professional development learning opportunities for educators that fulfill the goals and address the activities described in this act. The partnerships shall: (a) support school districts by providing professional development leadership, courses, and consultation services to school districts in their implementation of professional development activities, including the activities described in this act; and (b) support one another in the delivery of state-level and regional-level professional development activities such as state conferences and regional accountability institutes; and

(2) Enter into a performance agreement with each educational service district to clearly articulate partner responsibilities and assure fidelity for the delivery of professional development initiatives including job-embedded practices. Components of such performance agreements shall include: (a) participation in the development of various professional development workshops, programs, and activities; (b) characteristics and qualifications of professional development staff supported by the program; (c) methods to ensure consistent delivery of professional development services; and (d) reporting responsibilities related to services provided, program participation, outcomes, and recommendations for service improvement.

Establishes the recruiting Washington teachers program to recruit and provide training and support for high school students to enter the teaching profession, especially in teacher shortage areas and among under-represented groups and multilingual, multicultural students. The program shall be administered by the professional educator standards board.

Repeals RCW 28A.300.350, 28A.415.200, and 28A.415.205.

 
VETO MESSAGE ON 2SSB 5955

May 9, 2007

To the Honorable President and Members,
The Senate of the State of Washington

Ladies and Gentlemen:

I am returning, without my approval as to Sections 3 through 6, Second Substitute Senate Bill 5955 entitled:

"AN ACT Relating to educator preparation, professional development, and compensation."

Sections 3 through 6 of this bill provide for the creation of a math, science and targeted secondary reading initiative. Section 3 describes the initiative's tiered support system that provides resources and intervention to schools and districts on a grant basis depending on levels of need. Section 4 outlines specific activities. Section 5 addresses distribution of targeted assistance funds. And, Section 6 identifies certain duties of participating Education School Districts. While provisions for the initiative are well-meaning, no funding was provided for their implementation.

For these reasons, I have vetoed Sections 3 through 6 of Second Substitute Senate Bill 5955.

With the exception of Sections 3 through 6, Second Substitute Senate Bill 5955 is approved.

Respectfully submitted,
Christine O. Gregoire
Governor