HB 3124 - DIGEST

(AS OF HOUSE 2ND READING 2/16/98)

     Provides that, to the extent funds are appropriated, elementary schools interested in providing professional development and related materials for certificated instructional staff that provide direct instructional services to students in kindergarten, first, and second grade may apply for and receive funding from the office of the superintendent of public instruction.

     Requires that, by July 31, 1998, each educational service district shall establish a reading resource center within the district.

     Requires that, before September 30, 1998, the office of the superintendent of public instruction, in cooperation with educational service districts, shall conduct leadership and accountability institutes designed to provide teachers, administrators, and school board members with information and tools to improve beginning reading instructional programs and practices in their schools.

     Directs the superintendent of public instruction to establish a Washington reading corps pilot program to provide intensive reading instruction to elementary grade students during the summer, other intercessions for schools with year-round schedules, or other vacation periods between June 1, 1998, and June 30, 1999.

     Provides that, to the extent funds are appropriated for this purpose, the superintendent of public instruction shall enter into a contract with an independent contractor to conduct an evaluation of the pilot programs.

     Provides that the act shall be null and void if appropriations are not approved.