BILL REQ. #:  S-0804.2 

Read first time 01/31/2003.   Referred to Committee on Education.

     AN ACT Relating to teaching skills to strengthen family communication and relationship skills; adding a new section to chapter 28A.230 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.230 RCW to read as follows:
     Each school district board of directors shall develop and adopt a family preservation education program curricula. If the board of directors chooses not to adopt the model curricula developed by the superintendent of public instruction, the board shall submit to the office of superintendent of public instruction a copy of its proposed curricula for approval. A student is required to participate in the family preservation education program unless the student's parent or guardian objects in writing to the student's participation.

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 shall develop a family preservation education program model curricula that is available to each of the school district board of directors. The model curricula shall be posted on the superintendent of public instruction's web site. The model curricula shall include, but is not limited to, instruction on developing conflict management skills, communication skills, financial responsibility, and parenting responsibility.