Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research	BILL ANALYSIS
Education Committee

SSB 5940

Brief Description:  Strengthening career and technical education.

Sponsors:  By Senators Regala, McAuliffe, Carlson, Kohl‑Welles, Eide, Kastama, Rasmussen and Finkbeiner; by request of Superintendent of Public Instruction.

Hearing Date: 

Staff:  Susan Morrissey (786‑7111).

Background: 

In 1993 the Legislature enacted education reform measures that include four general student learning goals required of school districts.  Goal four requires districts to provide students with opportunities to understand the importance of work and how student actions affect future career opportunities.  The legislation also directed schools to provide high school students who have completed the certificate of mastery with the opportunity to pursue career and educational objectives through educational pathways that emphasize the integration of academic and vocational education.  Finally, the legislation repealed and did not replace instructions to school districts on vocational education.  

In addition to vocational education requirements under education reform, current high school graduation requirements adopted by the State Board of Education require students to receive a minimum of one credit in occupational education.

Summary of Bill: 

The Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) must establish standards for career and technical education programs.  The standards should include specified components that provide an assurance of academic rigor and preparation for industry-defined skill standards or certification, include a demonstration of alignment with work force development councils, and demonstrate a strategy to meet the requirements of the federal Carl Perkins act.  

The OSPI will recommend a funding system to implement the standards. The system will include funding for regular equipment and technology investments.

The OSPI may provide technical assistance to school districts on secondary school career guidance.  The office may also serve as state advisors to a variety of vocational education organizations and provide the coordination of leadership activities with the curriculum of technical education programs.

Finally, the OSPI must review and approve school districts' plans for the delivery of career and technical education.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Available.

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