FINAL BILL REPORT

SB 6561

FULL VETO

As Passed Legislature

Brief Description: Strengthening linkages between K-12 and higher education systems.

Sponsors: Senators Carlson, McAuliffe and Kohl-Welles.

Senate Committee on Higher Education

House Committee on Education

Background: Research suggests that students are well-served by an education system that blurs the boundaries between the K-12 system and the higher education system. The term "seamless education system" has been used for a number of years. Because research also shows that citizens need more than a high school education to be successful in the economic climate of today, some believe it is imperative for students to have access to a variety of postsecondary options while still in high school.

Washington has a number of options for students still in high school that allow them to earn both high school and college credits concurrently. The existing dual credit programs include, but are not limited to, Running Start, Tech-Prep, College in the High School, Advanced Placement, and International Baccalaureate.

Summary: The State Board for Community and Technical Colleges, the Higher Education Coordinating Board, the Council of Presidents, the Superintendent of Public Instruction, representatives from secondary school principals and school district superintendents, and the Workforce Training and Education Coordinating Board are instructed to expand and strengthen dual enrollment programs by removing barriers and creating incentives.

The expansion of dual enrollment programs on high school campuses is not intended to reduce dual enrollment programs on college campuses.

By December 15, 2004, the group reports to the education and higher education committees of the Legislature on actions taken to eliminate barriers and create incentives. The report includes actions for the Legislature to take to encourage the availability of dual enrollment and programs on high school campuses.

Votes on Final Passage:

Senate       48  0

House       96  0    (House amended)

Senate                   (Senate refused to concur)

House                   (House refused to recede)

Senate       48  0    (Senate concurred)