HB 1389 - DIGEST

(SEE ALSO PROPOSED 1ST SUB)

     Declares that, subject to funding provided for this specific purpose, the superintendent of public instruction may provide the following types of recognition to Washington's public school teachers who have obtained certification from the national board for professional teaching standards:

     (1) An eight thousand dollar recognition award to each Washington public school teacher who obtains certification after the 2000-01 school year;

     (2) For the duration of the national certification, an eight thousand dollar supplemental contract in any year in which a nationally certified teacher is selected by his or her school district to mentor other teachers while continuing to teach in the classroom.

     Requires, by August 1, 2004, and periodically thereafter, the Washington professional educator standards board to review the national board certification standards to determine whether the standards are sufficiently rigorous and aligned to student achievement.  The board shall also determine whether additional requirements are needed to ensure that the national standards meet the needs of Washington's students.

     Requires, by October 15, 2010, the Washington professional educator standards board to report to the appropriate house of representatives and senate committees on the results and accomplishments of the recognition awards, including the awards' mentoring component.  The report may include recommendations for the continuation, modification, or elimination of the awards.