Brief Description: Requiring a study of school district curriculum.

Sponsors: Representatives Lovick, Dunshee, McCoy, Santos, Simpson and Hasegawa.

Hearing Date: 2/1/06

Staff: Sarah Ream (786-7303).

Background:

Washington has a diverse mix of ethnic groups and cultures. These ethnic groups and cultures are reflected in Washington's public school population. According to data from the superintendent of public instruction, approximately 5.7 percent of the public school children in Washington are Black, 8 percent are Asian or Pacific Islander, 2.8 percent are Native American, 12.85 percent are Hispanic, and 70.26 percent are white.

Ethnic differences exist on students' performance on the Washington assessment of student learning (WASL). For example, for the 2004-2005 school year administration of the WASL, 77 percent of the white and 78.8 percent of the Asian students who took the 10th grade Reading WASL met standard. In contrast, 55.8 percent of the Native American students, 53.1 percent of the Hispanic students, and 53.7 percent of the Black students met standard in reading. Similar differences were reflected in the other WASL content areas.

Summary of Bill:

The College of Education at the University of Washington will review the curriculum offered by Washington's public schools to determine the degree to which the curriculum fully and accurately includes the history, contributions, and contemporary experiences of people of color. The review will also identify barriers that may impede the successful adoption and use of such a curriculum.
The report, including findings and recommendations, is due to the Legislature by December 1, 2007.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

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