SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6156

BYSenators Bailey and Craswell

Requiring school districts to report on the self-study process every two years.

Senate Committee on Education

Senate Hearing Date(s):January 14, 1988

Majority Report:  Do pass.

      Signed by Senators Bailey, Chairman; Kiskaddon, Vice Chairman; Bauer, Craswell, Gaspard, Lee, Rinehart.

Senate Staff:Don Bennett (786-7424)

                  January 19, 1988

AS PASSED SENATE, FEBRUARY 5, 1988

BACKGROUND:

School self-study procedures were required by the 1985 Legislature as part of SB 3235, Chapter 349, Laws of 1985. Other educational excellence concepts contained in that act included the small school allocation formula study, a career ladder pilot project, the school improvement and research grant project, and basic education contact hour waivers.

The self-study process includes participation by staff, parents, community members, and students.  Emphasis is placed upon achieving educational excellence and equity, building stronger links with the community, and reaching consensus upon educational expectations. 

Initial self-study began in all school districts by September 1, 1986 and is to be completed for all schools in the district by the end of the 1990-91 school year.  Current law requires an annual report to the Superintendent of Public Instruction on the scheduling and implementation of self-study activities. 

A common complaint from school districts is that reports and paperwork required by the state detract from time available to implement educational improvements.

SUMMARY:

School districts are required to report every two years to SPI on the scheduling and implementation of their self-study process.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      none requested

Senate Committee - Testified: Kris Van Gorkom, Washington Association of School Administrators; Ben Edlund, Moses Lake School District