SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 5924
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
As of February 10, 2009
Title: An act relating to the running start program.
Brief Description: Changing Running Start provisions.
Sponsors: Senators McAuliffe, Oemig, Kilmer and McDermott.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Early Learning & K-12 Education: 2/09/09.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON EARLY LEARNING & K-12 EDUCATION |
Staff: Susan Mielke (786-7422)
Background: Washington State has several dual enrollment/credit programs enabling high school students to simultaneously earn high school and college credit, including Running Start. Through this program 11th and 12th grade students take college courses at Washington’s 34 community and technical colleges; Washington State, Eastern Washington, and Central Washington Universities; The Evergreen State College; and the Northwest Indian College. Students earn both high school and college credits for these courses. Students do not pay tuition but pay lab fees, textbooks, and transportation costs. The colleges or universities receive funds from the school district, although the district may retain up to 7 percent of the full-time equivalent (FTE) allocation to offset Running Start program-related costs.
There are statutory definitions in the higher education code of tuition fees, building fees, operating fees, services and activities fees, technology fees, special fees, and voluntary fees.
Summary of Bill: Running Start students must pay to the institution of higher education all mandatory fees, other than tuition and fees, established by each community and technical college. The institution must prorate the fees based on credit load. Each institution must establish and implement a written policy for providing fee-waivers for low-income students. Acceptable documentation of low-income may include free or reduced-price lunch eligibility in the previous five years or other criteria established in the institution's policy.
By December 1, 2010, the State Board of Community and Technical Colleges must make recommendations for long-term funding proposals to support Running Start, which may include student tuition and performance funding.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Requested on February 6, 2009.
[OFM requested ten-year cost projection pursuant to I-960.]
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony: Pro: This bill allows the community and technical colleges to count Running Start students so that our colleges can meet the targets established by the state. No new state money is required this biennium but the bill directs the SBCTC to recommend long-term funding proposals. Running Start is a fabulous program but it is financially challenged. By charging minimal fees and thereby requiring some financial responsibility by our students and families then they may make a more thoughtful decision as to whether the student is ready to participate in the program.
Persons Testifying: Pro: Chris Reykdal, SBCTC; Doug Asbjornsen, Superintendent Reardan -Edwall school district; Michelle Johnson, Chancellor, Pierce College; Nathaniel Anderson, Pierce College Running Start graduate.