HOUSE BILL ANALYSIS

                  HB 2035

Title:  An act relating to changing the names of the commission on student learning and the essential academic learning requirements.

Brief Description:  Changing the names of the commission on student learning and the essential academic learning requirements.

Sponsors:  Representatives Smith and Bush.

HOUSE COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION

Meeting Date:  March 4, 1997.

Bill Analysis Prepared by:  Joe Hauth (786-7111).

Background:  The Legislature has established four student learning goals:

(1)Read, write, and communicate;

  (2)Know and apply mathematics, science, social studies, arts, and health and fitness;

(3)Think analytically and creatively; and

(4)Understand the importance of work.

The Legislature created the Commission on Student Learning (CSL) to:

-Identify the knowledge and skills needed by all public school students in support of the student learning goals;

-Develop a student assessment and school accountability system; and

-Take other steps as needed to improve student learning.

The Legislature also directed the CSL to develop Essential Academic Learning Requirements (EALRs) for students at successive grade levels in support of the student learning goals.  The CSL is developing an assessment system to determine whether students are achieving the EALRs.

Summary of Bill:  The Commission on Student Learning is renamed the Commission on Academic Achievement.  The Essential Academic Learning Requirements are renamed Academic Achievement Standards. 

Effective Date:  Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.