SB 6668 - DIGEST

(SUBSTITUTED FOR - SEE 1ST SUB)

     Finds and declares:  (1) Teacher assessment for certification can guard against admission to the teaching profession of persons who have not demonstrated that they are knowledgeable in the subjects they will be assigned to teach; and

     (2) teacher assessment for certification should be implemented as an additional element to the system of teacher preparation and certification and add value to the candidate's professional growth journey.

     Creates the Washington professional educator standards board.

     Provides that, effective June 1, 2000:  (1) All powers, duties, and functions of the state board of education pertaining to establishing and maintaining standards and processes for approving college, university, and school district programs for the preparation of educators and administrators, and educator and administrator assessment, certification, and standards of practice are transferred to the Washington professional educator standards board.  All references to the state board of education in the Revised Code of Washington shall be construed to mean the Washington professional educator standards board when referring to the functions transferred in this act.

     Provides that, beginning not later than September 1, 2001, the Washington professional educator standards board shall make available a means of assessing an applicant's knowledge in the basic skills.

     Repeals RCW 28A.410.020.