Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

Education Committee

HB 2402

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.

Brief Description: Removing the culminating project as a state graduation requirement.

Sponsors: Representatives Overstreet, Shea, Taylor, Reykdal and Van De Wege.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Prohibits the State Board of Education from establishing a requirement that students complete a culminating project for graduation, effective with the graduating class of 2015.

Hearing Date: 1/30/14

Staff: Barbara McLain (786-7383).

Background:

The State Board of Education (SBE) establishes minimum requirements for high school graduation through administrative rules. The current requirements are 20 credits among a specified distribution of subjects, a High School and Beyond Plan, and a culminating project. The requirements for a High School and Beyond Plan and a culminating project were first established for the graduating class of 2008. The SBE rule pertaining to the culminating project states that it must consist of the student demonstrating both their learning competencies and preparations related to Goals Three and Four of Basic Education, which pertain to analytical thinking, integration of technology literacy and fluency, problem-solving, and understanding the importance of work and finance. Additional specifications for completion of the culminating project are determined at the district or school level. Local school districts may exceed the state graduation requirements.

Summary of Bill:

The SBE is prohibited from establishing a requirement that students complete a culminating project for graduation, effective with the graduating class of 2015.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.