SENATE BILL REPORT

                                    SB 5366

                            AS OF FEBRUARY 20, 1991

Brief Description:  Changing provisions for certificated instructional staff.

SPONSORS:Senators Skratek, Madsen, Talmadge, Sutherland, L. Kreidler, Williams, Murray, Hansen, Owen and Pelz.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION

Staff:  Susan Mosborg (786‑7439)

Hearing Dates:February 20, 1991

BACKGROUND:

In 1987, new teacher certification requirements were enacted as part of omnibus education legislation.  After August 31, 1992, all teachers seeking continuing "professional level" certification will be required to have a masters degree in teaching or in the arts, sciences, or humanities.

In 1989, legislation was enacted to change the state teacher salary allocation schedule.  After January 1, 1992, the salary allocation schedule will no longer count credits earned in excess of ninety credits beyond the bachelors degree unless the teacher has a masters degree or unless the credits were being counted before January 1, 1992 (i.e., the "BA plus 135" column was capped).  Many districts use the state teacher salary allocation schedule as their schedule for determining actual teacher salaries.

SUMMARY:

The masters degree requirement for continuing teacher certification is repealed. 

Credits earned in excess of ninety credits beyond the bachelors degree by teachers who do not have masters degrees may be counted on the state teacher salary allocation schedule (i.e., the cap on the "BA plus 135" column is lifted).

Language requiring the State Board of Education to adopt masters degree equivalency standards for vocational instructors is also repealed.

Appropriation:  none

Revenue:  none

Fiscal Note:  requested February 5, 1991

Effective Date:  The bill contains an emergency clause and takes effect immediately.