BILL REQ. #:  S-4636.1 

READ FIRST TIME 02/05/04.   

     AN ACT Relating to teaching skills to strengthen family communication and relationship skills; adding a new section to chapter 28A.320 RCW; adding a new section to chapter 28A.300 RCW; and creating a new section.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON:

NEW SECTION.  Sec. 1   Strong marital relationships result in stronger children, families, and ultimately, stronger communities and place less of a fiscal burden on the state. Relationship skills can be learned, and once learned these skills can facilitate communication and assist couples in avoiding conflict. In addition, effective relationship skills are used in parenting, the workplace, schools, neighborhoods, and other relationships. The state has a compelling interest in encouraging its citizens in developing the relationship and communication skills that are vital for a successful and fulfilling marriage.

NEW SECTION.  Sec. 2   A new section is added to chapter 28A.320 RCW to read as follows:
     Each school district board of directors may develop and adopt a family preservation education program curricula. School districts are encouraged to develop a family preservation education program curricula and make a one credit course available to high school students. If the office of the superintendent of public instruction develops a family preservation education program model curricula but the board of directors chooses not to adopt the model curricula, the board may submit to the office of superintendent of public instruction a copy of its proposed curricula for approval. A student is not required to participate in the family preservation education program.

NEW SECTION.  Sec. 3   A new section is added to chapter 28A.300 RCW to read as follows:
     The office of superintendent of public instruction may develop a family preservation education program model curricula that is available to each of the school district board of directors. The model curricula may be posted on the superintendent of public instruction's web site. The model curricula may include, but is not limited to, instruction on developing conflict management skills, communication skills, financial responsibility, and parenting responsibility.