SENATE BILL REPORT

                   SB 6470

              As Reported By Senate Committee On:

                  Education, February 1, 1996

Title:  An act relating to improving student learning.

Brief Description:  Developing strategies to prepare educators and parents to prepare students to meet the student learning goals.

Sponsors:  Senators McAuliffe, Pelz and Winsley.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Education:  1/24/96, 2/1/96 [DPS].

SENATE COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION

Majority Report:  That Substitute Senate Bill No. 6470 be substituted therefor, and the substitute bill do pass.

  Signed by Senators McAuliffe, Chair; Goings, Vice Chair; Hochstatter, Pelz and Rasmussen.

Staff:  Leslie Goldstein (786-7424)

Background: By the 2000-2001 school year, school districts must use the new assessment system being developed by the Commission on Student Learning.  The assessment system will contain both classroom-based assessments and statewide assessments used for accountability purposes.  A major purpose of the assessment system is to provide educators with the tools to improve instruction to help improve student learning.

According to a number of studies, parents' involvement in their children's education plays a significant role in children's success in school. 

Summary of Substitute Bill:  The Commission on Student Learning in collaboration with the Superintendent of Public Instruction, the State Board of Education, school directors, teachers, parents and other groups must develop plans for programs to train educators to: (1) use classroom-based and state-level assessments to improve instruction; and (2) help parents understand the standards their students are supposed to meet and how to support their children's education.  The initial plans must be submitted to the Legislature by November 1, 1996.  The final plan is due November 1, 1998.

The Commission on Student Learning in collaboration with the Superintendent of Public Instruction, the State Board of Education, parent organizations, community organizations and other education groups must develop strategies for parental involvement. 

Substitute Bill Compared to Original Bill:  School directors are added to the planning group and the assessment system is described as including classroom-based and state-level assessment.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Not requested.

Effective Date:  Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.

Testimony For:  (original bill) Please include school directors as part of the planning committee.

Testimony Against:  None.

Testified:  Dwayne Slate, WA State School Directors Association.