SB 5813-S2.E - DIGEST
(AS OF SENATE 2ND READING 3/9/2007)

Authorizes a mathematics and science instructional coach demonstration project to develop, pilot, and refine program elements as a first step in the creation of a new instructional staff professional development program. The mathematics and science instructional coach demonstration project coaching program shall consist of a coach development institute, coaching seminars, coaching activities in schools, and program evaluation.

Requires the office of the superintendent of public instruction to develop a mathematics and science instructional coach program that includes an initial coach development experience for new coaches provided through an institute setting, coaching support seminars, and additional coach development services. The office shall draw upon the experiences of coaches in federally supported elementary literacy programs and other successful programs, research and policy briefs on adult professional development, and research that specifically addresses the instructional environments of middle, junior high, and high schools as well as the unique aspects of the fields of mathematics and science.

Requires the institute for public policy to report its findings to the governor, the office of the superintendent of public instruction, and the education and fiscal committees of the legislature. An interim report is due November 1, 2008. The final report is due December 1, 2009.

Creates the retooling to teach mathematics, special education, English as a second language, and science conditional scholarship program. Participation is limited to current K-12 teachers and individuals having an elementary education certificate but who are not employed in positions requiring an elementary education certificate. It is anticipated that candidates enrolled in this program will complete the requirements for a mathematics, special education, English as a second language, or science endorsement, or any combination thereof, in two years or less.

Finds that knowledge, skills, and opportunities in mathematics, science, and technology should be increased for all students in Washington. The legislature intends to foster capacity between and among the educational sectors to enable continuous and sustainable growth of the learning and teaching of mathematics, science, and technologies. The legislature intends to foster high quality mathematics, science, and technology programs to increase the number of students in the kindergarten through twelfth grade pipeline who are prepared and aspire to continue in the areas of mathematics, science, and technology, whether it be at a college, university, or in the workforce.

Requires the superintendent of public instruction to provide support for statewide coordination for math, science, and technology, including employing a statewide director for math, science, and technology.

Provides that, within funds specifically appropriated therefor, by December 1, 2008, the superintendent of public instruction shall develop essential academic learning requirements and grade level expectations for educational technology literacy and technology fluency that identify the knowledge and skills that all public school students need to know and be able to do in the areas of technology and technology literacy. The development process shall include a review of current standards that have been developed or are used by other states and national and international technology associations.