SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6481

BYSenators Rinehart, Smitherman, Talmadge, Moore and Warnke

Requiring the development of curriculum for dispute resolution and creative problem solving.

Senate Committee on Education

Senate Hearing Date(s):January 31, 1990

Senate Staff:Leslie Goldstein (786-7424)

AS OF JANUARY 30, 1990

BACKGROUND:

Conflict resolution curriculums have been developed in Oregon and in individual school districts in California to help students develop conflict resolution skills and better prepare students for the major issues facing society.

SUMMARY:

The Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) is directed to develop a model comprehensive curriculum on topics including dispute conflict resolution skills and creative problem solving, information about other cultures, citizen involvement, and how attitudes are formed and decisions are made.  The curriculum shall also include, on an age appropriate basis, the history of the arms race, national and international policy perspectives on the development of weapons and the nature of armed conflict, and how conflict resolution skills apply to international affairs.

In developing the curriculum,  OSPI shall consult with representatives of higher education, school directors, school superintendents and other administrators, teachers, school counselors, curriculum development organizations; and students.

The curriculum may be made available through local school districts.  The curriculum may be field tested.

Appropriation:    $49,000

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      requested