BILL REQ. #:  S-3835.1 

Read first time 01/21/2004.   Referred to Committee on Education.

     AN ACT Relating to scholarships for continuing education for classroom teachers; creating a new section; providing an expiration date; and declaring an emergency.

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

NEW SECTION.  Sec. 1   To the extent funds are provided, the superintendent of public instruction shall provide scholarships to be applied toward all or a portion of the educational expenses incurred by eligible classroom teachers for obtaining credits or clock hours that satisfy the continuing education requirements for state professional licensure. Eligible classroom teachers are first-year classroom teachers teaching in schools receiving federal Title I funds. The scholarships shall be awarded to all eligible applicants who apply on a first-come first-served basis. The amount of the award shall be prorated in accordance with the number of applicants, if necessary. By March 30, 2004, the office of the superintendent of public instruction shall notify all eligible applicants of the availability of the scholarships. Interested eligible applicants must submit an application to the office of the superintendent of public instruction by April 15, 2004, in order to receive an award. The superintendent of public instruction must distribute the scholarship funds by May 15, 2004.

NEW SECTION.  Sec. 2   Section 1 of this act expires July 1, 2005.

NEW SECTION.  Sec. 3   This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect immediately.