BILL REQ. #:  H-1070.2 

Read first time 01/26/11.   Referred to Committee on Education.

     AN ACT Relating to providing a limited exemption from school day and hour requirements in order to mitigate state funding reductions; creating a new section; providing an expiration date; and declaring an emergency.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON:

NEW SECTION.  Sec. 1   (1) The legislature recognizes that mid-year, retroactive reductions in state funding create administrative hardship for school districts. The legislature further recognizes that during difficult economic times, restructuring the school day or year can create local savings that may help mitigate the impacts of unforeseen state funding reductions, including savings in utilities, transportation, and certain personnel costs. The legislature intends to temporarily broaden the authority of the superintendent of public instruction to provide districts increased flexibility to manage within existing resources, while still offering quality educational programs.
     (2) During the 2010-11 school year, the superintendent of public instruction may provide an exemption from the requirements of RCW 28A.150.290(2), without adopting rules, if there are unforeseen, retroactive mid-school year reductions in state funding for school districts. The superintendent may provide an exemption for up to three school days, or the hourly equivalent. School districts must make application for this exemption, and must include a resolution from the local school board of directors in support of the request. The superintendent shall establish an exemption application and review process that is expedited and recognizes the unique administrative challenges facing school districts in the 2010-11 school year. The superintendent shall review exemption requests on the basis of district fund balance and administrative capacity to accommodate the proposed schedule or calendar changes, while preserving educational program quality.
     (3) This section expires September 1, 2011.

NEW SECTION.  Sec. 2   This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect immediately.