SENATE BILL REPORT

                                    SB 6195

            AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION, FEBRUARY 4, 1992

Brief Description:  Requiring the superintendent of public instruction to develop violence‑prevention materials for schools.

SPONSORS: Senators Rinehart, Bailey, Bauer and Oke

SENATE COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION

Majority Report:  Do pass. 

      Signed by Senators Bailey, Chairman; Erwin, Vice Chairman; Murray, Pelz, Rinehart, A. Smith, and Talmadge.

Staff:  Mich'l Prentice Needham (786‑7439)

Hearing Dates: January 28, 1992; February 4, 1992

BACKGROUND:

The incidence of violence in schools has been increasing rapidly.  It has been suggested that students need to learn better ways to resolve conflicts other than resorting to violence. 

SUMMARY:

The Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) is required to develop violence-prevention materials for use in local school districts.  OSPI may use materials developed by local school districts or they may consult with other interested persons.

The material may include but is not limited to the following: techniques for anger management; personal safety methods appropriate for different ages; problem-solving strategies; and effective alternatives to violence for solving problems.

Appropriation:  none

Revenue:  none

Fiscal Note:  requested January 27, 1992

TESTIMONY FOR:

Children need to learn skills to avoid violence and resolve conflicts.  Teaching children basic skills in violence resolution will reduce violence in the schools and in society.

TESTIMONY AGAINST:  None

TESTIFIED:  PRO:  Bob Braaton, Lee Landrud, Coalition for Learning; Mary Brown, Washington Coalition of Sexual Assault Programs; Marcia Costello, Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction