SB 5418-S - DIGEST

(DIGEST AS ENACTED)

     Declares that the accountability system should be based on continuous improvement at all levels of Washington's education system and on a fundamental principle that all students have equitable access to curriculum and instruction that is aligned to the standards.

     Finds that the accountability system should rely on local responsibility and leadership.  Districts and schools should be expected to improve and be evaluated based on their improvement over time.  Districts should recognize exceptional progress and work closely with struggling schools.  In addition to providing funding, the state should provide technical assistance and expertise where needed.

     Finds that the accountability system must be simple to use and understand.  Consequences must be predictable and fair.  Differences among students, schools, and districts should be recognized and respected as the system is implemented.  There should be a balance of each student's right to privacy and the public's right to know the overall levels of learning and achievement at the school, district, and state levels.  In addition, the accountability system should be continuously reviewed and improved as more is learned about how schools operate to meet the learning needs of Washington's students.

     Creates the academic achievement and accountability commission.

     Provides that, by September 5, 2000, the academic achievement and accountability commission shall recommend accountability policies to the governor, the superintendent of public instruction, and the education and fiscal committees of the house of representatives and senate.

     Provides that, in order to increase the availability and quality of technical assistance state-wide, the superintendent of public instruction, subject to available funding, may employ school improvement coordinators and school improvement specialists to provide assistance to schools and districts.  The improvement specialists shall serve on a rotating basis and shall not be permanent employees.

     Provides that, beginning July 1, 1999, the powers, duties, and functions of the commission on student learning are transferred to the academic achievement and accountability commission or to the superintendent of public instruction as appropriate under the transfer of duties made from the commission on student learning to the academic achievement and accountability commission or the superintendent of public instruction under this act.

     Repeals RCW 28A.300.138.

     Repeals 1998 c 225 s 3 (uncodified); 1995 c 209 s 3 (uncodified); and 1995 c 209 s 2 & 1992 c 141 s 203 (uncodified).