Brief Description: Reestablishing the Washington commission on student learning.

Sponsors: Representatives McCoy, Santos, Quall, Pettigrew, McDermott, Simpson, D., O'Brien, Lovick, Kenney, Haigh, Chase and Veloria.

Hearing Date: 1/26/04

Staff: Sydney Forrester (786-7120).

Background:

The Washington Commission on Student Learning (Commission) was established in 1992 as part of the state's education reform efforts. The primary tasks with which the Commission was charged were developing the EALR's based on the state's basic learning goals; developing student assessment and school accountability systems; and identifying data reporting requirements necessary for accountability in a performance-based education system. The Commission included three members from the State Board of Education, and six members appointed by the governor. The Commission sunset in June 1999 and was followed by the establishment of the Academic Achievement and Accountability Commission that same year.

Summary of Bill:

A fifth state learning goal is added requiring school distracts to provide opportunities for all students to develop the knowledge and skills essential to: 1) understand, accept, and demonstrate the value of various cultures and heritages; 2) become responsible and respectful citizens in multi-cultural setting; and 3) use their cultural knowledge as a foundation to achieve personal and academic success. The existing four learning goals are revised to include provisions related to diversity and cultural inclusiveness.

 The Washington Commission on Student Learning (Commission) is reestablished until June 30, 2009, for the purpose of revising the EALRs and the WASL to incorporate the revisions to the learning goals and the addition of a fifth goal. The Commission is charged with the same duties as during its previous existence, and new duties are added regarding assessment development and data reporting for racial, ethnic, and low socio-economic groups. Membership of the Commission is expanded to include eight gubernatorial appointments, which shall include representation from the Multi-Ethnic Think Tank. Timelines for revising the EALRs are established and the timelines for development of the WASL are extended by ten years.

The PESB advisory issues are expanded to include culturally and linguistically responsive professional growth, and recruitment and retention of racial and ethnic minorities. The Multi-Ethnic Think Tank is added to the groups to which the PESB must report annually, and a separate report is required in 2010 providing recommendation for alternative routes to certification that reflect the need for recruitment and retention of ethnic minorities. A requirement is added that the PESB's prospective teacher assessment system be culturally and linguistically responsive.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Requested on 1/26/04.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.