FINAL BILL REPORT

SSB 6357

C 71 L 10

Synopsis as Enacted

Brief Description: Requiring policies for academic recognition of certain formal and informal learning experiences.

Sponsors: Senate Committee on Higher Education & Workforce Development (originally sponsored by Senators Kilmer, Becker, Shin, Rockefeller, McAuliffe and Roach).

Senate Committee on Higher Education & Workforce Development

House Committee on Higher Education

House Committee on Education Appropriations

Background: The State Board for Community and Technical Colleges (College Board) sets policy direction for the community and technical college system. Among its specific responsibilities, the College Board must: (1) ensure that each college district offers thoroughly comprehensive educational, training, and service programs to meet the needs of both communities and students; (2) provide or coordinate related and supplemental instruction for apprentices; and (3) allow for the growth, improvement, flexibility, and modification of the community colleges and their education, training, and service programs as future needs occur.

Many students enroll at Washington institutions of higher education after first gaining significant life experiences and training in alternative learning settings. The 2008 Strategic Master Plan for Higher Education in Washington specifically identifies working adults and non-traditional students as demographic groups whose engagement in higher education opportunities should be encouraged.

Summary: The College Board, in consultation with the Higher Education Coordinating Board, the Council of Presidents, the Workforce Training and Education Coordinating Board, representatives from Washington institutions of higher education, representatives from two- and four-year faculty, representatives from private career schools, and representatives from business and labor must develop policies for awarding academic credit for learning from work and military experience, military and law enforcement training, career college training, internships and externships, and apprenticeships. The policies must address issues regarding verification, accreditation, transfer of academic credit, licensing and professional recognition, and financial aid.

Policies developed by the College Board, along with recommendations, are submitted to the appropriate committees of the Legislature by December 31, 2010.

Votes on Final Passage: