Brief Description: Regarding a P-16 governance structure for education.

Sponsors: Representatives Kenney, Berkey, Jarrett, Tom, Pettigrew and Hudgins.

Hearing Date: 3/3/03

Staff: Sydney Forrester (786-7120).

Background:

A P-16 system refers to an educational governance structure in which governance of all educational sectors is vested in a single governing authority or statutory coordinating board working with regional and local P-16 councils. The objective is a coherent and flexible continuum of public education policy linking pre-K through university learning opportunities.

Common goals of a P-16 plan include:

•    Expanding early learning access and improving kindergarten readiness.

•    Creating smooth transitions from one sector of education to the next.

•    Closing the achievement gaps (minority, socioeconomic, geographic).

•    Improving teacher education and professional development.

•    Strengthening partnership between families and schools.

•    Creating a broader range of learning experiences and opportunities in grades 11 and 12.

•    Improving college readiness and success.

Implementation of a P-16 system can be done as a broad package of reform or as a continuum of incremental changes. According to the Education Commission of the States (ECS) an increase in state spending of about 12% would be required to realize many of P-16 goals (universal preschool access, higher student achievement, and stronger links between K-12 and higher education.) ESC reports that over half the states currently report working on some aspect of a P-16 system. Florida, Georgia, and Kentucky all passed legislation in 2001 to implement a permanent P-16 structure or some variation thereof.

In the summer of 2002, California approved its Master Plan for Education, which is described as a 20-year road map for education policymakers aimed at improving and transforming student learning. A joint committee convened by the California legislature created the plan over a three-year period by forming seven working groups of participants with education, business, and civic backgrounds. These groups formulated policy recommendations for the joint committee's consideration, and the joint committee then created the master plan. After development of the plan, the California Legislature also reauthorized the joint committee for an additional two years to help develop legislation to implement the foundational parts of the plan. Implementation is expected to take effect over 10 years if approved.

Summary of Bill:

Makes certain legislative findings regarding the benefits of a comprehensive P-16 governance system for collaboration and coordination across educational levels and declares an intent to develop a P-16 system.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not Requested.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.