BILL REQ. #:  S-1175.1 

Read first time 02/01/2005.   Referred to Committee on Early Learning, K-12 & Higher Education.

     AN ACT Relating to improving teachers' skills in teaching children with learning differences; amending RCW 28A.415.023; and adding a new section to chapter 28A.410 RCW.

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

NEW SECTION.  Sec. 1   A new section is added to chapter 28A.410 RCW to read as follows:
     To receive initial certification as a teacher in this state after the effective date of this section, an applicant shall demonstrate knowledge either through completion of coursework or through passage of a test on teaching students with learning differences including the use of research-based assessment and instructional strategies for students with dyslexia, dysgraphia, and language learning disabilities. The state board of education, with the advice of the professional educator standards board, shall adopt rules to implement this section.

Sec. 2   RCW 28A.415.023 and 1997 c 90 s 1 are each amended to read as follows:
     (1) Credits earned by certificated instructional staff after September 1, 1995, shall be eligible for application to the salary schedule developed by the legislative evaluation and accountability program committee only if the course content:
     (a) Is consistent with a school-based plan for mastery of student learning goals, including the knowledge of the use by certificated instructional staff of research-based assessment and instructional strategies for students with dyslexia, dysgraphia, and language learning disabilities when addressing learning goal one, as referenced in RCW ((28A.320.205)) 28A.655.110, the annual school performance report, for the school in which the individual is assigned;
     (b) Pertains to the individual's current assignment or expected assignment for the subsequent school year;
     (c) Is necessary to obtain an endorsement as prescribed by the state board of education;
     (d) Is specifically required to obtain advanced levels of certification; or
     (e) Is included in a college or university degree program that pertains to the individual's current assignment, or potential future assignment, as a certified instructional staff.
     (2) For the purpose of this section, "credits" mean college quarter hour credits and equivalent credits for approved in-service, approved continuing education, or approved internship hours computed in accordance with RCW 28A.415.020.
     (3) The superintendent of public instruction shall adopt rules and standards consistent with the limits established by this section for certificated instructional staff.