Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

Education Committee

HB 2583

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: Adding charter school chief executive officers to the list of individuals who may file complaints of unprofessional conduct regarding certificated employees.

Sponsors: Representative Dahlquist.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Adds the Chief Executive Officer of a charter school to the list of individuals who may file a complaint regarding unprofessional conduct on the part of a certificated school employee, which may result in actions against the individual's certificate.

Hearing Date: 1/29/14

Staff: Barbara McLain (786-7383).

Background:

Certificated school employees may have their certificate revoked or suspended upon a criminal records report authorized by law, or upon the written complaint of the Professional Educator Standards Board (PESB) or any school district superintendent, Educational Service District (ESD) superintendent, or private school administrator for immorality, violation of written contract, unprofessional conduct, or crime. The complaint must contain the grounds and factual basis upon which they believe an investigation is warranted by the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI). Such complaints are not limited to an employee of the filing authority. A reprimand may also be issued in lieu of certificate revocation or suspension.

In 2012 the voters approved Initiative 1240, which authorizes charter schools in Washington. Directors of charter schools are not listed in the current law as individuals who may file complaints against a certificated employee.

Summary of Bill:

The Chief Executive Officer of a charter school is added to the list of individuals who may file a complaint to the OSPI regarding conduct on the part of a certificated school employee that may result in an action against the employee's certificate.

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.