SENATE BILL REPORT

ESB 6684

BYSenators Zimmerman, Smitherman, Anderson and Johnson

Establishing a pilot project of early outreach programs for middle school or high school students.

Senate Committee on Higher Education

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 4, 1988

Majority Report:  Do pass as amended.

      Signed by Senators Saling, Chairman; Patterson, Vice Chairman; Anderson, Hansen, McMullen, Smitherman, von Reichbauer.

Senate Staff:Scott Huntley (786-7421)

                  February 12, 1988

AS PASSED SENATE, FEBRUARY 11, 1988

BACKGROUND:

Changing academic standards for entrance to postsecondary institutions and rising costs for education have made it important for middle school and high school students, along with their parents, to engage in early planning for a successful postsecondary experience.  It has been found that many students decide by the 8th grade whether they will be college bound.  It is argued that outreach programs at this important developmental stage would provide middle school and high school students with encouragement and support to shape their educational aspirations.

SUMMARY:

The Higher Education Coordinating (HEC) Board will establish a pilot project consisting of early outreach programs to provide guidance and information to middle school or high school students.  The pilot project will employ work-study eligible college students as advisors, providing outreach information for the middle school and high school students.  Participating college students will provide information regarding scholarships, work opportunities, student financial assistance options, and academic requirements for college-bound students.  The pilot program will begin in the 1988-89 school year and continue for two academic years.

The board will ask the public and private institutions of higher education in this state to submit proposals for outreach programs.  The board will select those proposals which will be a part of the pilot project in an open and competitive manner.  The board may establish an advisory panel with members representing the middle schools and high schools, and financial aid and admissions personnel from colleges and universities.  The board will evaluate pilot programs and report to the Legislature on outcomes and recommendations by December 1, 1991.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      available

Senate Committee - Testified: Shirley Ort, Higher Education Coordinating Board (for); Christopher Yates, South Puget Sound CC, Student Programs (for)