HOUSE BILL REPORT

                 HCR 4429

             As Reported By House Committee on:

                          Education

Brief Description:  Endorsing the Council on Education Reform and Funding's goals and mission.

Sponsor(s):  Representatives Peery, Ballard, Betrozoff, Brumsickle, Paris, Jones, H. Myers and Rayburn.

Brief History:

  Reported by House Committee on:

Education, February 5, 1992, DP.

HOUSE COMMITTEE ON

EDUCATION

Majority Report: Do pass.  Signed by 17 members:  Representatives Peery, Chair; G. Fisher, Vice Chair; Vance, Assistant Ranking Minority Member; Betrozoff; Broback; Carlson; G. Cole; Dorn; P. Johnson; Jones; J. Kohl; Neher; Orr; Rasmussen; Roland; H. Sommers; and Valle.

Minority Report: Do not pass.  Signed by 1 member:  Representative Brough, Ranking Minority Member.

Staff:  Robert Butts (786-7111).

Background:  In May 1991, Governor Gardner created a Council on Education Reform and Funding to develop a long-term action plan designed to reform the state's schools and significantly improve student learning.

Members of the council include legislative leaders, the Superintendent of Public Instruction, other educators, and representatives of business and labor.  The council has established six subcommittees, and is developing student learning goals.

In creating the council, the governor asked that it submit a final report and action plan by December 1, 1992.

Summary of Bill:  The Legislature endorses the charge and work plan of the Council on Education Reform and Funding, and looks forward to receiving the council's recommendations in December 1992.

Fiscal Note:  Not requested.

Effective Date:  Upon adoption of both houses of the Legislature.

Testimony For:  Members of the council are working very hard, and we are hopeful that their recommendations will lead to systemic school reform.

Testimony Against:  We are concerned about unelected individuals representing the people and parents of the state.  Make sure that all actions of the council are brought to the Legislature for approval.

Witnesses:  Steve Nielsen, Governor's Office (supports); Nancy Bratton, Greater Seattle Chamber of Commerce (supports); Tom Dooley, Association of Washington Business (supports); and Cris Shardelman (opposes).