Brief Description: Strengthening linkages between K-12 and higher education systems.

Sponsors: Representatives Quall, Talcott, Rockefeller, Kenney, McDermott, Upthegrove, Santos, Anderson, Ormsby, Edwards, Linville, Wallace, Morrell, Kagi and Simpson, G..

Hearing Date: 2/5/04

Staff: Sydney Forrester (786-7120).

Background:

A variety of programs allow high school students to earn post secondary course credit while earning credit toward high school graduation. Examples include Running Start, College in the High School, Tech Prep, and International Baccalaureate. Students who participate in these dual enrollment programs have the opportunity to graduate from high school with all or a portion of their intended college course work already completed.

Summary of Bill:

The Higher Education Coordinating Board (HECB), the Council of Presidents (COP), the State Board for Community and Technical Colleges (SBCTC), and the Superintendent of Public Instruction (SPI) are directed to strengthen, expand, and create dual enrollment programs by removing barriers that inhibit the availability of such programs, and by creating incentives for offering these programs.

The group also is directed to examine the feasibility of using the Washington Assessment of Student Learning (WASL) as a factor for admissions and placement at higher education institutions. A report to the Legislature is required by December 15, 2004, in which the group is directed to describe actions taken and to make recommendations for Legislative actions to further encourage the availability of dual enrollment programs on high school campuses.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Requested on February 4, 2004.

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