SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5772

As of February 13, 2001

Title:  An act relating to standards for educator quality.

Brief Description:  Changing the authority of the professional educator standards board.

Sponsors:  Senators Kohl‑Welles, McAuliffe, Eide, Winsley, Carlson and Rasmussen; by request of Governor Locke.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Education:  2/14/01.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION

Staff:  Kelly Simpson (786‑7403)

Background:  Under current law, the State Board of Education is charged with setting standards for and approving educator preparation programs at public and private colleges and universities in Washington State.  The State Board is also required to establish standards for educator certification, and for in-service training programs.

The Washington Professional Educator Standards Board (PESB) currently serves as an advisory body to the Superintendent of Public Instruction and as the sole advisory body to the State Board of Education on matters relating to professional educators.  The PESB is also required to develop a prospective teacher assessment system consisting of a basic skills test and subject matter test for individuals seeking certification.

Summary of Bill:  Powers, duties, and functions of the State Board of Education relating to approving educator preparation programs and educator certification standards are transferred to the Washington Professional Educator Standards Board.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Requested on February 1, 2001.

Effective Date:  The bill contains an emergency clause and takes effect on June 1, 2001.