FINAL BILL REPORT

HB 2118

                                  C 402 L 89

BYRepresentatives Dorn, Brumsickle, G. Fisher and K. Wilson 

Expanding coverage from grade six to grade eight of certification for candidates for grades preschool through grade six certificates.

House Committe on Education

Senate Committee on Education

SYNOPSIS AS ENACTED

BACKGROUND:

In 1987, the Legislature restructured the grade levels covered by various types of teaching certificates to cover only grades preschool through six.  Prior to that change, an elementary certificate authorized teaching in grades kindergarten through eight.  The State Board of Education has adopted rules requiring candidates for certification to have endorsements in two of 29 teaching areas.  Endorsements in specific subject areas such as English, social studies, mathematics, and science, cover grades four through 12.  The endorsement in elementary education, which allows assignment in grades preschool through eight, is covered by a certificate that only allows certification for grades preschool through six.  The elimination of kindergarten through eighth grade certification has created significant staffing problems for districts which have middle schools covering grades six through eight.  Middle schools emphasize assigning students to a core curriculum teacher who instructs the students in reading, language arts, and social studies.

SUMMARY:

The certificate authorizing a teacher to teach in preschool through grade six is expanded to cover preschool through grade eight.

The State Board of Education is directed to review its certification procedures and, if necessary, develop requirements for the certification of middle school teachers.  The review shall be completed by May 31, 1990.

VOTES ON FINAL PASSAGE:

      House 98   0

      Senate    45     0

EFFECTIVE:July 23, 1989