BILL REQ. #:  H-0318.1 

Read first time 01/19/2005.   Referred to Committee on Education.

     AN ACT Relating to family and consumer science education; 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   The legislature finds that 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. 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:
     Within available funds, each school district board of directors shall develop and adopt a family preservation education program curriculum and offer a one credit family preservation course in high school. If the board of directors chooses not to adopt the model curriculum developed by the superintendent of public instruction, the board shall develop its own curriculum with input from the community.

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