FINAL BILL REPORT
2ESB 5617
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
C 12 L 10
Synopsis as Enacted
Brief Description: Changing early learning advisory council provisions.
Sponsors: Senators Kauffman and McAuliffe.
Senate Committee on Early Learning & K-12 Education
House Committee on Early Learning & Children's Services
Background: In 2007 the Legislature established the Early Learning Advisory Council (ELAC) to advise the Department of Early Learning (DEL) on statewide early learning needs and to develop a statewide early learning plan.
ELAC may include up to 25 members. Twenty-four of the members are specified in statute, including one representative each from DEL, the Office of Financial Management, the Department of Social and Health Services, the Department of Health, the Higher Education Coordinating Board, the State Board for Community and Technical Colleges, the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction, the sovereign tribal governments, the Washington Federation of Independent Schools, and, in addition, at least seven leaders in early childhood education, two members of the House of Representatives, two members of the Senate, two parents, one of whom must serve on DEL's Parent Advisory Council, and two members of a private-public partnership, known as Thrive by Five Washington.
ELAC must include diverse, statewide representation from public, nonprofit, and for-profit entities. Its membership must reflect regional, racial, and cultural diversity to adequately represent the needs of all children and families in the state. Council members serve two-year terms. ELAC has two co-chairs. DEL provides staff support.
Summary: ELAC is directed to advise DEL on statewide early learning issues that would build a comprehensive system of quality early learning programs and services for Washington's children and families by assessing needs and the availability of services, aligning resources, developing plans for data collection and professional development of early childhood educators, and establishing key performance measures.
ELAC membership is reduced from 25 to 23 members; all 23 are specified in statute. Thrive by Five is represented by one, instead of two, members. The Governor must appoint seven leaders in early childhood education, with representatives in suggested areas of expertise.
Votes on Final Passage:
Senate | 45 | 0 | |
House | 96 | 0 |
Effective: | June 10, 2010 |