Brief Description: Concerning school district superintendent credential preparation programs.

Sponsors: Representatives Kenney, McCoy, Pearson, Dunshee, Schual-Berke, Cooper, Kristiansen, Chase and Morrell; by request of State Board of Education.

Hearing Date: 1/30/04

Staff: Barbara McLain (786-7383).

Background:

The State Board of Education (SBE) has authority to issue certificates for school personnel, including teachers, educational staff associates, and school administrators. Administrator's certificates are available for principals, program administrators, and superintendents. As part of this authority, the SBE approves the preparation programs offered at public and private institutions of higher education that lead to the various certificates. Earning a certificate is not the same as earning an academic degree, although the two may be issued simultaneously. For example, teaching certificates can be earned through bachelor's degree, master's degree, or post-baccalaureate certificate-only programs.

The qualifications for school superintendents are set exclusively by local school boards, but a board could require its superintendent to be state certified. At a minimum, the SBE requires a master's degree and completion of an approved superintendent preparation program. Among public institutions of higher education, state statute permits only the UW or WSU to offer training for certification as a school superintendent.

The five SBE-approved programs are at the UW Seattle, all campuses of WSU, Gonzaga University, Seattle University, and Seattle Pacific University. Only the UW program is exclusively a doctoral program; each of the other programs permits candidates to complete the certificate in conjunction with a master's degree or through post-master's degree study.

Summary of Bill:

The limitation is removed that only the UW or WSU among the public institutions of higher education may offer training for certification as a school superintendent.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

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