WSR 11-01-134

PROPOSED RULES

SUPERINTENDENT OF

PUBLIC INSTRUCTION

[ Filed December 21, 2010, 10:21 a.m. ]

     Original Notice.

     Preproposal statement of inquiry was filed as WSR 10-21-114.

     Title of Rule and Other Identifying Information: Chapter 392-190 WAC, Equal educational opportunity--Unlawful discrimination prohibited, WAC 392-190-005, 392-190-010, 392-190-015, 392-190-020, 392-190-025, 392-190-026, 392-190-030, 392-190-035, 392-190-040, 392-190-045, 392-190-050, 392-190-055, 392-190-056, 392-190-057, 392-190-058, 392-190-059, 392-190-0591, 392-190-0592, 392-190-060, 392-190-065, 392-190-070, 392-190-075, 392-190-076, 392-190-077, 392-190-078, 392-190-079, 392-190-080, 392-190-081, and 392-190-082.

     Hearing Location(s): Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction, Brouillet Conference Room, 4th Floor, 600 Washington Street S.W., Olympia, WA 98504, on January 25, 2011, at 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. (noon).

     Hearing via Videoconference: Host site: Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction, 600 Washington Street S.W., Olympia, WA 98504, on January 26, 2011, at 12:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

     SITE LOCATIONS: Educational Service District 101 -Northeast, Admiralty Room, 4202 South Regal, Spokane, WA 99223-7738; at the Educational Service District 105, Columbia Room, 33 South 2nd Avenue, Yakima, WA 98902-3486; at the Educational Service District 112, Clark and Pacific Rooms, 2500 N.E. 65th Avenue, Vancouver, WA 98661-6812; at the Educational Service District 113, Board Room, 601 McPhee Road S.W., Olympia, WA 98502-5080; at the Educational Service District 114 - Olympic, Room 204, 105 National Avenue North, Bremerton, WA 98312; at the Educational Service District 121 -Puget Sound, Snoqualmie Room, 800 Oakesdale Avenue S.W., Renton, WA 98057-5221; at the Educational Service District 123, Lewis and Clark Room, 3918 West Court Street, Pasco, WA 99301; at the Educational Service District 171 - North Central, Ponderosa Room, 430 Old Station Road, Wenatchee, WA 98801; and at the Educational Service District 189 - Northwest, Classroom 1, 1601 R Avenue, Anacortes, WA 98221.

     Date of Intended Adoption: January 28, 2011.

     Submit Written Comments to: Yvonne Ryans, Director of Equity and Civil Rights, P.O. Box 47200, Olympia, WA 98504-7200, e-mail commentsHB3026@k12.wa.us, fax (360) 664-2967, by January 26, 2011.

     Assistance for Persons with Disabilities: Contact Wanda Griffin by January 13, 2011, TTY (360) 664-3631 or (360) 725-6132.

     Purpose of the Proposal and Its Anticipated Effects, Including Any Changes in Existing Rules: The agency proposes amendments and additions to the rules in order to:


• Address new state law, chapter 28A.642 RCW, which prohibits discrimination in Washington public schools on the basis of race, creed, religion, color, national origin, honorably discharged veteran or military status, sexual orientation including gender expression or identity, the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability.
• Extend the existing protections available under current state sexual equality law, chapters 28A.640 RCW and 392-190 WAC, to all protected classes listed in chapter 28A.642 RCW.
• Develop rules and guidelines to eliminate discrimination based on these protected classes as it applies to public school employment, counseling and guidance services to students, recreational and athletic activities for students, access to course offerings, and in textbooks and instructional materials used by students, as required under RCW 28A.642.020.
• Provide procedures for the office of superintendent of public instruction to follow when monitoring school districts for compliance with this law.
• Amend existing provisions in chapter 392-190 WAC for clarity and readability.

     Reasons Supporting Proposal: Statutory authority in chapter 28A.642 RCW: Chapter 28A.642 RCW was passed in 2010, prohibiting discrimination in Washington public schools on the basis of race, creed, religion, color, national origin, honorably discharged veteran or military status, sexual orientation including gender expression or identity, the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability, or the use of a trained dog guide of [or] service animal by a person with a disability. As provided in RCW 28A.642.020, the superintendent of public instruction will develop rules and guidelines to eliminate discrimination as it applies to public school employment, counseling and guidance services to students, recreational and athletic activities for students, access to course offerings, and in textbooks and instructional materials used by students.

     Statutory Authority for Adoption: RCW 28A.642.020 and 28A.640.020.

     Statute Being Implemented: Chapters 28A.642 and 28A.640 RCW.

     Rule is not necessitated by federal law, federal or state court decision.

     Name of Proponent: Office of the superintendent of public instruction, governmental.

     Name of Agency Personnel Responsible for Drafting, Implementation and Enforcement: Yvonne Ryans, OSPI, P.O. Box 47200, Olympia, WA 98504-7200, (360) 725-6162.

     No small business economic impact statement has been prepared under chapter 19.85 RCW. The proposed rules do not impose costs on businesses or industries.

     A cost-benefit analysis is not required under RCW 34.05.328.

December 21, 2010

Randy Dorn

Superintendent of

Public Instruction

OTS-3814.3

Chapter 392-190 WAC

EQUAL EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITY -- ((SEX)) UNLAWFUL DISCRIMINATION PROHIBITED


AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending Order 18, filed 7/19/90, effective 8/19/90)

WAC 392-190-005   Purpose -- Elimination of ((sex)) unlawful discrimination in public schools.   The purpose of this chapter is to establish rules and regulations which implement chapters 28A.640 and 28A.642 RCW. The referenced enactments prohibit((s)) discrimination on the basis of sex ((in grades K-12 of the)), race, creed, religion, color, national origin, honorably discharged veteran or military status, sexual orientation including gender expression or identity, the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability in Washington public schools. Broad federal regulations implementing Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act, and Titles VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 similarly prohibit ((sex)) discrimination based on sex, race, creed, religion, color, national origin, and disability, in federally assisted education programs or activities. As a result, several substantive areas have been similarly identified and addressed by both state and federal enactments.

     It is the intent of this chapter to encompass those similar substantive areas addressed by ((the Title IX regulations and in some aspects extend beyond the Title IX regulations)) federal civil rights authorities and in some aspects extend beyond those authorities. Accordingly, compliance with ((this chapter)) relevant federal civil rights law should constitute compliance with those similar substantive areas treated in ((the Title IX regulations)) this chapter, but school districts should be aware that compliance with ((the Title IX regulations)) federal civil rights laws alone may not constitute compliance with this chapter.

     ((Although)) In accordance with chapters 28A.640 and 28A.642 RCW ((and the balance of this chapter prohibit sex discrimination in grades K-12 only, the superintendent of public instruction hereby declares pursuant to the authority vested in the superintendent by Article 3, section 22 of the state Constitution that)) it ((shall be)) is unlawful for any public school district to discriminate on the basis of sex, race, creed, religion, color, national origin, honorably discharged veteran or military status, sexual orientation including gender expression or identity, the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal with regard to any activity conducted by or ((in)) on behalf of a school district including, but not limited to, preschool, adult education, community education and vocational-technical program activities.

[Statutory Authority: 1990 c 33. 90-16-002 (Order 18), § 392-190-005, filed 7/19/90, effective 8/19/90. Statutory Authority: RCW 34.05.220 [(1)](a). 89-23-001 (Order 15), § 392-190-005, filed 11/2/89, effective 12/3/89; Order 6-76, § 392-190-005, filed 5/17/76.]


AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending Order 15, filed 11/2/89, effective 12/3/89)

WAC 392-190-010   Counseling and guidance services -- Career opportunities -- Internal procedures.   (1) No school district ((shall)) will engage in discrimination against any person on the basis of sex, race, creed, religion, color, national origin, honorably discharged veteran or military status, sexual orientation including gender expression or identity, the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal in the counseling or guidance of students in grades K-12.

     (2) Each school district ((shall)) will devise and use materials, orientation programs, and counseling techniques that will encourage participation in all school programs and courses of study based on factors other than sex ((and that)), race, creed, religion, color, national origin, honorably discharged veteran or military status, sexual orientation including gender expression or identity, the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal. School districts will encourage students to explore subjects and activities not ((heretofore)) traditional for their sex.

     (3) Each school district which uses testing and other materials for ((appraising or)) counseling students ((shall)) will not use different materials for students based on ((the basis of)) their sex ((or use materials which permit or require different treatment of students on such basis unless (a) such)), race, creed, religion, color, national origin, honorably discharged veteran or military status, sexual orientation including gender expression or identity, the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal. A school district may use different materials for students on the basis of their sex, race, creed, religion, color, national origin, honorably discharged veteran or military status, sexual orientation including gender expression or identity, the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal if:

     (a) Such different materials cover the same occupations and interest areas; and

     (b) The use of such different materials is demonstrated to be essential to eliminate ((sex)) bias based on sex, race, creed, religion, color, national origin, honorably discharged veteran or military status, sexual orientation including gender expression or identity, the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal.

     (4) Each school district ((shall)) will develop and use internal procedures for ensuring that all tests and appraisal instruments related to guidance counseling, career and vocational guidance materials, work/study programs and opportunities, and educational scheduling and/or placement do not discriminate on the basis of sex((: Provided, That where the)), race, creed, religion, color, national origin, honorably discharged veteran or military status, sexual orientation including gender expression or identity, the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal.

     (5) If a school district concludes that the use of such instruments ((or)), materials, or ((such)) programs ((or activities results in)) is causing a substantially disproportionate number of students who are members of one ((sex)) of the groups identified in WAC 392-190-005 to be placed in any particular course of study or classification, the school district ((shall)) will take such immediate action as is necessary to assure ((itself)) that such disproportion is not the result of discrimination in the ((program or activity or in the)) instrument ((or)), material, or its application((: Provided further, That)).

     (6) Where a school district finds that a particular class contains a substantially disproportionate number of ((individuals of one sex)) students who are members of any one of the groups identified in WAC 392-190-005, the district ((shall)) will take such immediate action as is necessary to assure ((itself)) that such disproportion is not the result of discrimination on the basis of sex, race, creed, religion, color, national origin, honorably discharged veteran or military status, sexual orientation including gender expression or identity, the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal in tests and appraisal instruments, career and vocational guidance materials, work/study programs and opportunities, and educational scheduling and/or placement ((or)) by counselors.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 34.05.220 [(1)](a). 89-23-001 (Order 15), § 392-190-010, filed 11/2/89, effective 12/3/89. Statutory Authority: RCW 28A.85.020, 28A.85.030 and 28A.85.050. 80-09-017 (Order 80-26), § 392-190-010, filed 7/9/80; Order 6-76, § 392-190-010, filed 5/17/76.]


AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending Order 15, filed 11/2/89, effective 12/3/89)

WAC 392-190-015   Counseling and guidance -- Sex discrimination -- Duty of certificated and classroom personnel -- Coordination of effort.   (1) All certificated and classroom personnel ((shall)) will encourage students to explore and develop their individual interests in career and vocational technical programs and employment opportunities without regard to sex, including reasonable efforts encouraging students to consider and explore "nontraditional" occupations for men and women((: Provided, That)). All certificated and classroom personnel within each local school district ((shall)) will have access to an educational staff associate (ESA) certificated school counselor(s) or such other appropriate person(s), designated by the school district superintendent to coordinate compliance with the requirements of this section.

     (2) All certificated and classroom personnel ((shall)) will comply fully and immediately with the requirements of this section. The superintendent of each school district shall make the designation(s) required by this section immediately.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 34.05.220 [(1)](a). 89-23-001 (Order 15), § 392-190-015, filed 11/2/89, effective 12/3/89; Order 6-76, § 392-190-015, filed 5/17/76.]


AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending Order 15, filed 11/2/89, effective 12/3/89)

WAC 392-190-020   Inservice training -- ((Sex)) Bias awareness.   Each school district ((should)) will, where appropriate, include sex, race, creed, religion, color, national origin, honorably discharged veteran or military status, sexual orientation including gender expression or identity, the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal bias awareness and ((sex bias)) elimination training sessions in such inservice training programs as are conducted or provided for certificated and/or classroom personnel.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 34.05.220 [(1)](a). 89-23-001 (Order 15), § 392-190-020, filed 11/2/89, effective 12/3/89; Order 6-76, § 392-190-020, filed 5/17/76.]


AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending Order 15, filed 11/2/89, effective 12/3/89)

WAC 392-190-025   Recreational and athletic activities(( -- Equal opportunity -- Separate teams)).   (((1))) No person ((shall)) will, on the basis of sex, race, creed, religion, color, national origin, honorably discharged veteran or military status, sexual orientation including gender expression or identity, the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, ((be treated differently from another person)) or otherwise be discriminated against in any interscholastic, club or intramural athletics or recreational activity offered by a school district, and no school district ((shall)) will provide any such athletics or recreational activity separately on such basis. ((Sports teams and programs offered by a school district shall, regardless of their nature, be equally open to participation by qualified members of both sexes: Provided, That in the case of sports and recreational activities offered for students in grades 7 through 12, a school district may maintain separate teams for members of each sex if (a) it can clearly be shown, under the factual circumstances involved in the particular case, that the maintenance of separate teams for boys and girls truly constitutes the best method of providing both sexes, as a whole, with an equal opportunity to participate in the sports or games of their choice and (b) at the same time, a test of substantial equality between the two programs can be found to have been met.

     (2) For the purpose of this section and WAC 392-190-050(2) "substantial equality" shall be determined by considering factors including but not limited to the following:

     (a) The relationship between the skill and compensation of coaching staffs;

     (b) The size of their budgets;

     (c) The quality of competition and game schedules;

     (d) Uniforms;

     (e) Equipment and facilities; and

     (f) Sufficient numbers of participants to warrant separate teams.))

[Statutory Authority: RCW 34.05.220 [(1)](a). 89-23-001 (Order 15), § 392-190-025, filed 11/2/89, effective 12/3/89; Order 6-76, § 392-190-025, filed 5/17/76.]


NEW SECTION
WAC 392-190-026   Recreational and athletic -- Sex discrimination -- Equal opportunities -- Separate teams.   (1) Sports teams and programs offered by a school district will be equally open to participation by qualified members of both sexes. For sports and recreational activities offered for students in grades 7 through 12, a school district may maintain separate teams for members of each sex if:

     (a) It can clearly be shown, under the factual circumstances involved in the particular case, that the maintenance of separate teams for boys and girls truly constitutes the best method of providing both sexes, as a whole, with an equal opportunity to participate in the sports or games of their choice; and

     (b) At the same time, a test of substantial equality between the two programs has been met.

     (2) For the purpose of this section and WAC 392-190-050(2) "substantial equality" will be determined by considering factors including, but not limited to, the following:

     (a) The relationship between the skill and compensation of coaching staffs;

     (b) The size of their budgets;

     (c) The quality of competition and game schedule;

     (d) Uniforms;

     (e) Equipment and facilities; and

     (f) Sufficient numbers of participants to warrant separate teams.

[]


AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending Order 15, filed 11/2/89, effective 12/3/89)

WAC 392-190-030   General -- Recreational and athletic activities -- Sex discrimination -- Equal opportunity factors considered.   Each school district ((shall)) must evaluate its recreational and athletic program at least once each year to ensure that equal opportunities are available to members of both sexes with respect to interscholastic, club or intramural athletics which are operated, sponsored, or otherwise provided by the school district.

     In determining whether equal opportunities are available to members of both sexes with respect to interscholastic, club or intramural athletics, each school district conducting an evaluation required by this section, and the office of superintendent of public instruction upon receipt of a complaint pursuant to WAC 392-190-075, ((shall)) will consider several factors, including but not limited to the following where provided by a school district:

     (1) Whether the selection of sports and levels of competition effectively accommodates the interests and abilities of members of both sexes;

     (2) The provision of equipment and supplies;

     (3) The scheduling of games and practice times including the use of playfields, courts, gyms, and pools;

     (4) Transportation and per diem allowances, if any;

     (5) The opportunity to receive coaching and academic tutoring;

     (6) The assignment and compensation of coaches, tutors, and game officials;

     (7) The provision of medical and training facilities and services including the availability of insurance;

     (8) The provision of housing, laundry, and dining facilities and services, if any; and

     (9) Publicity and awards.

     Unequal aggregate expenditures within a school district for members of each sex or unequal expenditures for separate male and female teams will not alone constitute noncompliance with this chapter, but the failure to provide the necessary funds for recreational and athletic activities for members of one sex may be considered in assessing the equality of opportunity for members of each sex.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 34.05.220 [(1)](a). 89-23-001 (Order 15), § 392-190-030, filed 11/2/89, effective 12/3/89; Order 6-76, § 392-190-030, filed 5/17/76.]


AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending Order 15, filed 11/2/89, effective 12/3/89)

WAC 392-190-035   Recreational and athletic activities -- ((Compliance timetable))Sex discrimination -- Elementary and secondary level.   (1) Each school district which operates, sponsors, or otherwise provides interscholastic, club or intramural athletics at the elementary school level (K-6) ((shall)) will provide equal opportunity and encouragement for physical and skill development to all students in the elementary grades consistent with this chapter.

     (2) Each school district which operates, sponsors, or otherwise provides interscholastic, club or intramural athletics at the secondary school level (7-12) ((shall)) will provide equal opportunity and encouragement for physical and skill development to all students in the secondary grades consistent with this chapter.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 34.05.220 [(1)](a). 89-23-001 (Order 15), § 392-190-035, filed 11/2/89, effective 12/3/89. Statutory Authority: RCW 28A.85.020, 28A.85.030 and 28A.85.050. 80-09-017 (Order 80-26), § 392-190-035, filed 7/9/80; Order 6-76, § 392-190-035, filed 5/17/76.]


AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending Order 15, filed 11/2/89, effective 12/3/89)

WAC 392-190-040   Recreational and athletic activities -- Sex discrimination -- Student interest -- Required survey instrument.   (1) The superintendent of public instruction ((shall)) will develop a survey instrument to assist each school district in the determination of student interest for male/female participation in specific sports.

     (2) A survey instrument ((shall)) will be administered by each school district at all grade levels where interscholastic, intramural and other sports and recreational activities are conducted. The results of the survey ((shall)) will be considered in the program planning and development in the area of recreational and athletic activities offered within the school district.

     (3) A survey instrument developed pursuant to this section ((shall)) will be administered at least once every three years within each school district((: Provided, That)). School districts may modify or amend the content of the survey instrument ((may be modified or amended as deemed appropriate)) if the district deems it necessary to clarify and assist in the evaluation of student interest. If a school district intends to modify or amend the instrument, the district must provide the office of superintendent of public instruction with a copy of the proposal for approval prior to its administration.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 34.05.220 [(1)](a). 89-23-001 (Order 15), § 392-190-040, filed 11/2/89, effective 12/3/89. Statutory Authority: RCW 28A.85.020, 28A.85.030 and 28A.85.050. 80-09-017 (Order 80-26), § 392-190-040, filed 7/9/80; Order 6-76, § 392-190-040, filed 5/17/76.]


AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending Order 15, filed 11/2/89, effective 12/3/89)

WAC 392-190-045   Recreational and athletic activities -- Sex discrimination -- Facilities.   A school district which provides athletic facilities for members of one sex including showers, toilets, and training room facilities for athletic purposes ((shall)) must provide comparable facilities for members of the opposite sex((: Provided, That)). Such facilities may be provided as either separate facilities or ((shall)) will be scheduled and used separately by members of each sex((: Provided further, That)). This section ((shall)) will not be interpreted to require the construction of additional facilities.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 34.05.220 [(1)](a). 89-23-001 (Order 15), § 392-190-045, filed 11/2/89, effective 12/3/89. Statutory Authority: RCW 28A.85.020, 28A.85.030 and 28A.85.050. 80-09-017 (Order 80-26), § 392-190-045, filed 7/9/80; Order 6-76, § 392-190-045, filed 5/17/76.]


AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending Order 15, filed 11/2/89, effective 12/3/89)

WAC 392-190-050   Course offerings -- Generally -- Separate sessions or groups -- When permissible.   No school district ((shall)) will provide any course or otherwise carry out any of its education programs or activities separately on the basis of sex, race, creed, religion, color, national origin, honorably discharged veteran or military status, sexual orientation including gender expression or identity, the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal or require or refuse participation therein by any of its students on such basis, including but not limited to health, physical education, industrial arts, business, vocational-technical, and home economics courses((: Provided, That)). This section ((shall)) will not be construed to prohibit:

     (1) The grouping of students in physical education classes and activities by demonstrated ability as assessed by objective standards of individual performance developed and applied without regard to sex((: Provided, That)). Where use of a single standard of measuring skill or progress in a physical education class has an adverse effect on members of one sex, the school district ((shall)) must immediately implement appropriate standards which do not have such effect;

     (2) The separation of students by sex within physical education classes or activities offered for students in grades 7 through 12 if:

     (a) It can clearly be shown under the factual circumstances involved in the particular case, that the maintenance of a separate physical education class or activity for boys and girls truly constitutes the best method of providing both sexes, as a whole, with an equal opportunity to participate in such class or activity; and

     (b) At the same time, a test of substantial equality between the two classes or activities can be found to have been met;

     (3) ((The conduct of)) Separate sessions for boys and girls with respect to those portions of classes which deal exclusively with human sexuality; ((and))

     (4) ((The conduct of)) Classes and/or activities ((within)) which a school district may establish or maintain requirements based on vocal range or quality which may result in a chorus or choruses of one or predominantly one sex; and

     (5) Classes, courses or placement of students based on the student's individual language skill development and/or based on the student's needs as identified in the student's individualized education program.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 34.05.220 [(1)](a). 89-23-001 (Order 15), § 392-190-050, filed 11/2/89, effective 12/3/89. Statutory Authority: RCW 28A.85.020, 28A.85.030 and 28A.85.050. 80-09-017 (Order 80-26), § 392-190-050, filed 7/9/80; Order 6-76, § 392-190-050, filed 5/17/76.]


AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending Order 18, filed 7/19/90, effective 8/19/90)

WAC 392-190-055   Textbooks and instructional materials -- Scope -- Elimination of ((sex)) bias(( -- Compliance timetable)).   (1) It is the intent of this section to eliminate bias pertaining to sex ((bias)), race, creed, religion, color, national origin, honorably discharged veteran or military status, sexual orientation including gender expression or identity, the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal in connection with any form of instruction provided by a school district.

     (2) The instructional materials policy of each school district required by RCW 28A.320.230 ((shall)) will incorporate therein, as part of the selection criteria, a specific statement requiring the elimination of bias pertaining to sex ((bias)), race, creed, religion, color, national origin, honorably discharged veteran or military status, sexual orientation including gender expression or identity, the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal in all textbooks and instructional materials including reference materials and audio-visual materials.

     (3) The instructional materials committee of each school district ((shall)) will establish and maintain appropriate screening criteria designed to identify and eliminate bias pertaining to sex ((bias)), race, creed, religion, color, national origin, honorably discharged veteran or military status, sexual orientation including gender expression or identity, the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability, or the use of trained dog guide or service animal in all textbooks and instructional materials including reference materials and audio-visual materials((: Provided, That)). Such selection criteria ((shall)) must be consistent with the selection criteria ((endorsed by the state board of education dated December 6, 1974, WAC 180-48-010, as now or hereafter amended, and WAC 180-46-005 through 180-46-060)) identified in chapter 392-204 WAC, as now or hereafter amended. One of the aids to identification of ((sex)) bias in instructional materials ((consists of)) is the Washington Models for the Evaluation of Bias Content in Instructional Materials published by the superintendent of public instruction.

     (4) In recognition of the fact that current instructional materials which contain ((sex)) bias may not be replaced immediately, each school district should acquire supplemental instructional materials or aids to be used concurrent with existing materials for the purpose of countering the ((sex)) bias content thereof.

     (5) Nothing in this section is intended to prohibit the use or assignment of supplemental instructional materials such as classic and contemporary literary works, periodicals and technical journals which, although they contain ((sex)) bias, are educationally necessary or advisable.

[Statutory Authority: 1990 c 33. 90-16-002 (Order 18), § 392-190-055, filed 7/19/90, effective 8/19/90. Statutory Authority: RCW 34.05.220 [(1)](a). 89-23-001 (Order 15), § 392-190-055, filed 11/2/89, effective 12/3/89. Statutory Authority: RCW 28A.85.020, 28A.85.030 and 28A.85.050. 80-09-017 (Order 80-26), § 392-190-055, filed 7/9/80; Order 6-76, § 392-190-055, filed 5/17/76.]


AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending Order 94-14, filed 11/10/94, effective 12/11/94)

WAC 392-190-056   Sexual harassment -- Definitions.   (1) As used in this chapter, "sexual harassment" means unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, sexually motivated physical contact, or other verbal or physical conduct or communication of a sexual nature between two or more individuals if:

     (a) Submission to that conduct or communication is made a term or condition, either explicitly or implicitly, of obtaining an education or employment;

     (b) Submission to or rejection of that conduct or communication by an individual is used as a factor in decisions affecting that individual's education or employment; or

     (c) That conduct or communication has the purpose or effect of substantially interfering with an individual's educational or work performance, or of creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive educational or work environment.

     (2) For the purpose of this definition, sexual harassment may include conduct or communication that involves adult to student, student to adult, student to student, adult to adult, male to female, female to male, male to male, and female to female.


((Note: School districts must be guided by federal and state case law in their interpretation of sexual harassment complaints and will need to determine sexual harassment on a case-by-case basis.))

     (3) School districts must be guided by federal and state case law in their interpretation of sexual harassment complaints and will need to determine sexual harassment on a case-by-case basis. Nothing in this chapter should be construed as diminishing or otherwise modifying an individual's right to bring an action under state or federal law alleging that the individual has been harmed by conduct or communication related to the individual's sex, race, creed, color, national origin, honorably discharged veteran status, sexual orientation including gender expression or identity, the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal that creates a hostile or abusive educational or workplace environment.

[Statutory Authority: 1994 c 213. 94-23-043 (Order 94-14), § 392-190-056, filed 11/10/94, effective 12/11/94.]


AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending Order 94-14, filed 11/10/94, effective 12/11/94)

WAC 392-190-057   Sexual harassment policy -- Adoption date -- Required criteria.   In order to eliminate sexual harassment in connection with any responsibility, function or activity within the jurisdiction of a school district, a sexual harassment policy ((shall)) must be adopted and implemented by each district no later than June 30, 1995. This policy ((shall)) will apply to all school district employees, volunteers, parents, and students, including but not limited to, conduct between students. This policy ((shall)) will incorporate the following criteria:

     (1) Definitions consistent with the categories in RCW 28A.640.020 (2)(f);

     (2) District and staff responsibilities;

     (3) Informal grievance procedures;

     (4) Grievance procedures consistent with WAC 392-190-065 through 392-190-075 of this chapter;

     (5) Investigative procedures and reasonable and prompt timelines;

     (6) Remedies available to victims of sexual harassment;

     (7) Disciplinary actions against violators which must conform with collective bargaining agreements and state and federal laws;

     (8) Reprisal, retaliation and false accusations prohibition;

     (9) Dissemination and implementation; and

     (10) Internal review.

[Statutory Authority: 1994 c 213. 94-23-043 (Order 94-14), § 392-190-057, filed 11/10/94, effective 12/11/94.]


AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending Order 94-14, filed 11/10/94, effective 12/11/94)

WAC 392-190-058   Sexual harassment -- Procedures.   (1) School district policies on sexual harassment ((shall)) must be reviewed by the superintendent of public instruction considering the criteria established under WAC 392-190-057 as part of the monitoring process established in RCW 28A.640.030. The superintendent of public instruction ((shall)) will supply upon request sample sexual harassment policies to school districts.

     (2) The school district's sexual harassment policy ((shall)) must be easily understood and conspicuously posted throughout each school building, and provided to each employee, volunteer and student.

     (3) Reasonable efforts ((shall)) will be made to inform all students and their parents about the district's sexual harassment policy and procedures.

     (4) A copy of the policy ((shall)) will appear in any publication of the school or school district setting forth the rules, regulations, procedures, and standards of conduct for the school or school district.

     (5) Each school ((shall)) will develop a process for discussing the district's sexual harassment policy. The process ((shall)) will ensure the discussion addresses the definition of sexual harassment and issues covered in the sexual harassment policy.

[Statutory Authority: 1994 c 213. 94-23-043 (Order 94-14), § 392-190-058, filed 11/10/94, effective 12/11/94.]


NEW SECTION
WAC 392-190-059   Harassment, intimidation, and bullying prevention policy and procedure -- Adoption date.   (1) By August 1, 2011, each school district shall adopt or amend if necessary a harassment, intimidation, and bullying prevention policy and procedure as provided for in RCW 28A.300.285.

     (2) When monitoring school districts' compliance with this chapter pursuant to WAC 392-190-076, the office of superintendent of public instruction will review such policies and procedures to ensure that they provide that students will not be harassed, intimidated, or bullied because of their sex, race, creed, religion, color, national origin, sexual orientation including gender expression or identity, the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal.

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NEW SECTION
WAC 392-190-0591   Public school employment and contract practices -- Nondiscrimination.   (1) No school district will, on the basis of sex, race, creed, religion, color, national origin, honorably discharged veteran or military status, sexual orientation including gender expression or identity, the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability, exclude any person from participation in, deny any person the benefit of, or subject any person to discrimination in employment, recruitment, promotion or advancement, consideration or selection, whether full time or part time, in connection with employment by a school district.

     (2) Each school district must make all employment decisions in a nondiscriminatory manner and will not limit, segregate, or classify any person in any way which could adversely affect a person's employment opportunities or status on the basis of sex, race, creed, color, national origin, honorably discharged veteran or military status, sexual orientation including gender expression or identity, the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability.

     (3) No school district will enter into any contractual or other relationship that directly or indirectly has the effect of subjecting any person to discrimination in connection with employment on the basis of sex, race, creed, religion, color, national origin, honorably discharged veteran or military status, sexual orientation including gender expression or identity, the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability including, but not limited to, relationships with employment and referral agencies, with labor unions, and with organizations providing or administrating fringe benefits to employees.

     (4) No school district will grant preferential treatment to applications for employment on the basis of enrollment at any education institution or entity which admits as students only or predominately individuals or groups on the basis of sex, race, color or national origin, if the giving of such preferences has the effect of discriminating on the basis of sex, race, color, or national origin.

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NEW SECTION
WAC 392-190-0592   Public school employment -- Affirmative action program.   (1) Each school district must develop and/or incorporate within any existing affirmative action employment program appropriate provisions which are consistent with the intent of chapters 28A.640 and 28A.642 RCW. Each school district's affirmative action employment program must include at least the following provisions respecting discrimination on the basis of sex:

     (a) Maintain credential requirements for all personnel;

     (b) Make no differentiation in pay scale;

     (c) Make no differentiation in the assignment of school duties except where such assignment would involve duty areas or situations such as, but not limited to, shower rooms, where persons might be disrobed;

     (d) Provide the same opportunities for advancement;

     (e) Make no difference in conditions of employment including, but not limited to, hiring practices, leaves of absence, hours of employment and assignment of, or pay for, instructional and noninstructional duties; and

     (f) Such other provisions as may be required by the superintendent of public instruction designed to facilitate the effective achievement of all reasonable affirmative action goals and objectives in public school employment respecting the elimination of discrimination on the basis of sex.

     (2) Notwithstanding the requirements of this chapter respecting discrimination on the basis of sex, each school district must develop and/or incorporate within any existing affirmative action employment program appropriate provisions to eliminate discrimination on the basis of race, creed, religion, color, national origin, honorably discharged veteran or military status, sexual orientation including gender expression or identity, the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability.

     (3) Each affirmative action employment program of a school district must be filed with the office of superintendent of public instruction.

     (4) The board of directors of each school district must adopt and implement an affirmative action employment program required by this section as expeditiously as possible but in no event later than September 30, 2011.

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AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending Order 15, filed 11/2/89, effective 12/3/89)

WAC 392-190-060   Compliance -- Local school district -- Designation of responsible employee -- Notification.   (1) The superintendent of each school district ((shall)) will immediately designate at least one employee who ((shall)) will be responsible directly to the superintendent for monitoring and coordinating the district's compliance with this chapter. The employee designated pursuant to this section ((shall)) will also be charged with the responsibility to investigate any complaint(s) communicated to the school district pursuant to WAC 392-190-065.

     (2) Each school district ((shall)) will, once each year or more often as deemed necessary, publish notice in a manner which is reasonably calculated to inform all students, students' parents, and employees of the name, office address and telephone number of the employee or employees appointed pursuant to this section and the complaint and appeal procedure set forth in WAC 392-190-065, 392-190-070 and 392-190-075 as now or hereafter amended.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 34.05.220 [(1)](a). 89-23-001 (Order 15), § 392-190-060, filed 11/2/89, effective 12/3/89; Order 6-76, § 392-190-060, filed 5/17/76.]


AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending Order 15, filed 11/2/89, effective 12/3/89)

WAC 392-190-065   Compliance -- Complaint procedure -- District superintendent.   (1) ((Upon receipt of a complaint by a school district in the manner herein described, the employee or employees designated pursuant to WAC 392-190-060 shall investigate the allegations set forth and shall institute such other reasonable procedures to effect a prompt resolution of the complaint: Provided, That each)) Anyone may file a complaint with a school district alleging that the district has violated this chapter. The complaint ((communicated to the school district shall)) must be:

     (a) Written((,));

     (b) Signed by the ((complaining party,)) complainant; and

     (c) Set forth specific acts, conditions, or circumstances alleged to ((be violative of)) violate this chapter or the specific acts, conditions, or circumstances that would be prohibited by this chapter. Upon receipt of the complaint, the employee or employees designated pursuant to WAC 392-190-060 will investigate the allegations and effect a prompt resolution of the complaint.

     (2) ((Upon)) Following the completion of the investigation ((required by this section in connection with a complaint communicated to the school district)), the designated employee or employees ((shall)) will provide the district superintendent with a full written report of the complaint and the results of the investigation. The district superintendent ((shall)) must respond in writing to the complaining party as expeditiously as possible but in no event later than thirty calendar days following receipt of such complaint by the school district, unless otherwise agreed to by the complainant.

     (3) The response of the school district superintendent required by this section ((shall)) must clearly state either:

     (a) That the school district denies the allegations contained in the complaint received ((pursuant to this section,)); or

     (b) The ((nature of such)) reasonable corrective measures deemed necessary to eliminate any such act, condition, or circumstance within the school district((: Provided, That)). Any such corrective measures deemed necessary ((shall)) will be instituted as expeditiously as possible but in no event later than thirty calendar days following the school district superintendent's mailing of a written response to the ((complaining party)) complainant required by this section, unless otherwise agreed to by the complainant.

     (4) The complaint procedure required by this section ((shall)) will not prohibit the processing of grievances by an employee bargaining representative and/or a member of a bargaining unit pursuant to grievance procedures established at the school district level by local bargaining agreement.

     (5) The school district and complainant may agree to resolve the complaint in lieu of an investigation.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 34.05.220 [(1)](a). 89-23-001 (Order 15), § 392-190-065, filed 11/2/89, effective 12/3/89; Order 6-76, § 392-190-065, filed 5/17/76.]


AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending Order 15, filed 11/2/89, effective 12/3/89)

WAC 392-190-070   Compliance -- Appeal procedure -- Local school board.   (1) ((In the event)) A complainant ((remains aggrieved as a result of the action or inaction of the superintendent in resolving a complaint as)) has a right to appeal the school district superintendent's response provided in WAC 392-190-065(2), ((said complainant may appeal)) to the school district board of directors ((by filing a written notice of appeal)). The appeal must be filed with the secretary of the school board on or before the tenth calendar day following (((a))) the date upon which the complainant received the superintendent's response ((or (b) the expiration of the thirty day response period provided by WAC 392-190-065, whichever occurs first)).

     (2) In the event a school district superintendent fails to timely respond to a complaint communicated pursuant to WAC 392-190-065, a complainant has a right to an appeal to the board of directors. The appeal must be filed with the secretary of the school board on or before the tenth calendar day following the expiration of the response period provided by WAC 392-190-065(2).

     (3) An appeal to the board of directors pursuant to this section ((shall)) will require the board of directors to schedule a hearing to commence on or before the twentieth calendar day following the filing of the written notice of appeal((. Both parties shall)), unless otherwise agreed to by the complainant and the school district superintendent, or for good cause. The complainant and the school district superintendent will be allowed to present such witnesses and testimony as the board deems relevant and material. Unless otherwise agreed to by the complainant and the school district superintendent, or for good cause, the board of directors ((shall)) will render a written decision on or before the tenth calendar day following the termination of the hearing, and ((shall)) will provide a copy to all parties involved.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 34.05.220 [(1)](a). 89-23-001 (Order 15), § 392-190-070, filed 11/2/89, effective 12/3/89; Order 6-76, § 392-190-070, filed 5/17/76.]


AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending Order 15, filed 11/2/89, effective 12/3/89)

WAC 392-190-075   Compliance -- Contested case -- Duty of the superintendent of public instruction.   (1) In the event a complainant ((remains aggrieved)) disagrees with the decision of a school district board of directors rendered pursuant to WAC 392-190-070, the complainant may appeal the board's decision to the superintendent of public instruction. ((Upon the receipt of a notice of appeal filed in compliance with this section, the superintendent of public instruction shall schedule a hearing to commence on or before the fortieth day thereafter.)) For purpose of hearing an appeal under this section, the superintendent of public instruction will conduct a formal administrative hearing in conformance with the Administrative Procedure Act, chapter 34.05 RCW. The superintendent of public instruction, in carrying out this duty, may contract with office of administrative hearings pursuant to RCW 28A.300.120 to hear a particular appeal. Decisions in cases appealed pursuant to this section may be made by administrative law judge selected by the chief administrative law judge if the superintendent of public instruction delegates this authority pursuant to RCW 28A.300.120.

     (2) A notice of appeal must be received by the superintendent on or before the ((tenth)) twentieth calendar day following the date upon which the complainant received written notice of the school board's decision. ((Furthermore,)) The notice is deemed received when the notice is delivered in person or by regular mail, registered mail, or certified mail, with return receipt requested, to the superintendent of public instruction. The notice must be in writing and must set forth (a) a concise statement of the portion or portions of the school board's decision which is appealed from, and (b) the relief requested by the complainant/appellant.

     (3) Appeals to the superintendent ((shall)) will be conducted de novo ((pursuant to the state Administrative Procedure Act (chapter 34.04 RCW))). The complainant/appellant ((shall)) will have the responsibility for prosecuting ((his or her case)) the appeal and the school district/respondent ((shall)) will have the duty of defending the school district's decision or the portion ((thereof)) of the decision appealed.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 34.05.220 [(1)](a). 89-23-001 (Order 15), § 392-190-075, filed 11/2/89, effective 12/3/89. Statutory Authority: RCW 28A.85.020, 28A.85.030 and 28A.85.050. 80-09-017 (Order 80-26), § 392-190-075, filed 7/9/80; Order 6-76, § 392-190-075, filed 5/17/76.]


NEW SECTION
WAC 392-190-076   Monitoring -- Duty of the superintendent of public instruction.   (1) The office of superintendent of public instruction will monitor school districts' compliance with chapters 28A.640 and 28A.642 RCW and the rules and guidelines adopted in furtherance thereof.

     (2) Procedures for monitoring school districts may include:

     (a) Collection, review, and analysis of data and other information;

     (b) Conduct of on-site visits and interviews; and

     (c) Review of any compliance issues, including reviews by those agencies referenced in WAC 392-190-077.

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NEW SECTION
WAC 392-190-077   Monitoring results -- Compliance.   (1) Following its monitoring of a school district pursuant to WAC 392-190-076, the office of superintendent of public instruction will notify districts of any findings of identified noncompliance with chapters 28A.640 and 28A.642 RCW and the rules and guidelines adopted in furtherance thereof. This notification of noncompliance will initiate a process of correction, verification, and validation to ensure that the noncompliance is corrected within a compliance period identified by the office of superintendent of public instruction. The compliance period must be no longer than one year from the identification of noncompliance. If noncompliance is systemic in nature, a systemic corrective action plan is required. The district will have thirty calendar days after its receipt of the notice of noncompliance to:

     (a) Accept the findings contained in the notification of noncompliance; or

     (b) Provide the office of superintendent of public instruction with supplemental information that may serve as a basis for amending the notification of noncompliance; or

     (c) Provide any revisions to the proposed corrective action plan.

     (2) If the school district provides the office of superintendent of public instruction with supplemental information, the office of superintendent of public instruction will respond to the school district with a final monitoring report within thirty calendar days after receipt of the supplemental information.

     (3) If the school district does not timely address the identified noncompliance with corrective actions, the superintendent of public instruction may, at his or her discretion, undertake actions to ensure school district compliance. Such actions may include, but are not limited to, referring the school district to appropriate state or federal agencies empowered to order compliance with the law, or the initiation of an office of superintendent of public instruction complaint against the school district.

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NEW SECTION
WAC 392-190-078   Monitoring results -- Complaints issued by superintendent of public instruction.   (1) In the event the office of superintendent of public instruction initiates a complaint against a school district, the superintendent of public instruction will send a copy of the complaint to the school district superintendent. The complaint will include written allegations of fact and proposed corrective actions. The school will provide a written response to the complaint no later than twenty calendar days after the complaint is sent to the school district, unless otherwise agreed to, or for good cause.

     (2) The school district's response to the superintendent of public instruction will clearly state either:

     (a) That the school district denies the allegations contained in the complaint and the basis of such denial; or

     (b) That the school district admits the allegations and proposes reasonable corrective action(s) deemed necessary to correct the violation.

     (3) Upon review of the school district's response and all other relevant information, the superintendent of public instruction will make an independent determination as to whether the school district is in violation of chapters 28A.640, 28A.642 RCW, or the rules of this chapter.

     (4) The superintendent of public instruction will issue a written decision to the school district that addresses each allegation in the complaint including findings of fact, conclusions, and the reasonable corrective measures deemed necessary to correct any violation. The superintendent of public instruction may provide technical assistance necessary to resolve a complaint. All actions will be instituted as soon as possible but in no event later than thirty calendar days following the date of the decision, unless otherwise agreed to, or for good cause.

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NEW SECTION
WAC 392-190-079   Complaints issued by superintendent of public instruction -- Appeal procedure.   (1) A school district that desires to appeal the written decision of the superintendent of public instruction issued pursuant to WAC 392-190-078 may file an appeal with the superintendent of public instruction in accordance with the adjudicative proceedings in RCW 34.05.413 through 34.05.494, and the administrative practices and procedures of the superintendent of public instruction in chapter 392-101 WAC. To initiate review under this section, a school district must file a written notice with the superintendent of public instruction within thirty calendar days following the date of receipt of the superintendent of public instruction's written decision.

     (2) For purposes of hearing an appeal under this section, the superintendent of public instruction will conduct a formal administrative hearing in conformance with the Administrative Procedure Act, chapter 34.05 RCW. The superintendent of public instruction, in carrying out this duty, may contract with the office of administrative hearings pursuant to RCW 28A.300.120 to hear a particular appeal.

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AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending Order 15, filed 11/2/89, effective 12/3/89)

WAC 392-190-080   Compliance -- Violations -- Permissible sanctions.   In the event a school district is found to be in violation of the requirements of this chapter, the superintendent of public instruction may, by appropriate order pursuant to chapter ((34.04)) 34.05 RCW, impose an appropriate sanction or institute appropriate corrective measures((,)) including, but not limited to (((a))):

     (1) The termination of all or part of state apportionment or categorical moneys to the offending school district((, (b)));

     (2) The termination of specified programs wherein such violation or violations are found to be flagrant in nature((, (c)));

     (3) The institution of a mandatory affirmative action program within the offending school district((,)); and

     (((d))) (4) The placement of the offending school district on probation with appropriate sanctions until such time as compliance is achieved or is assured, whichever is deemed appropriate in the particular case by the superintendent of public instruction.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 34.05.220 [(1)](a). 89-23-001 (Order 15), § 392-190-080, filed 11/2/89, effective 12/3/89; Order 6-76, § 392-190-080, filed 5/17/76.]


NEW SECTION
WAC 392-190-081   Concurrent remedies -- Other remedies.   (1) Except as provided in subsections (2) and (3) of this section, nothing in this chapter shall be construed as denying an aggrieved person from simultaneously pursuing other available administrative, civil or criminal remedies for an alleged violation of the law.

     (2) A complaint made pursuant to WAC 392-190-065 or 392-190-075 will be held in abeyance during the pendency of any proceeding in state or federal court or before a local state or federal agency in which the same claim or claims are at issue, whether under RCW 28A.640.040, 28A.642.040, or any other law.

     (3) Where the complainant elects to pursue simultaneous claims in more than one forum, the factual and legal determinations issued by the first tribunal to rule on the claims may, in some circumstances, be binding on all or portions of the claims pending before other tribunals.

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NEW SECTION
WAC 392-190-082   Informing citizens about complaint procedures.   The superintendent of public instruction will inform parents and other interested individuals about the complaint procedures in this chapter. Specific actions to be taken by the superintendent of public instruction include:

     (1) Disseminating copies of the state's procedures to parents, advocacy agencies, professional organizations, and other appropriate entities; and

     (2) Conducting inservice training sessions on the complaint process through educational service districts or in statewide conferences.

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