Finds that expanding activity in educational research, educational restructuring, and educational improvement initiatives has produced and continues to produce much valuable information.

Finds that such information should be shared with the citizens and educational community of the state as widely as possible.

Finds that students and schools benefit from increased parental, guardian, and community knowledge of and input regarding the delivery of public education.

Finds that increased knowledge of and input regarding the public education system is particularly needed in low-income and ethnic minority communities.

Finds that the center for the improvement of student learning, created by the legislature in 1993 under the auspices of the superintendent of public instruction, has not been allocated funding since the 2001-2003 biennium, and in effect no longer exists.

Declares an intent to reactivate the center for the improvement of student learning, and to create within the center an educational ombudsman to serve as a resource center for parents and students and as an advocate for students in the public education system.

Requires the office of the superintendent of public instruction to report to the legislature by September 1, 2007, and thereafter biennially, regarding the effectiveness of the center for improvement of student learning, how the services provided by the center for improvement of student learning have been used and by whom, and recommendations to improve the accessibility and application of knowledge and information that leads to improved student learning and greater family and community involvement in the public education system.

Creates the office of the education ombudsman within the office of the governor for the purposes of providing information to parents, students, and others regarding their rights and responsibilities with respect to the state's public elementary and secondary education system, and advocating on behalf of elementary and secondary students.

Requires the education ombudsman to report on the work and accomplishment of the office and advise and make recommendations to the governor, the legislature, and the state board of education annually. The initial report to the governor, the legislature, and the state board of education shall be made by September 1, 2007, and there shall be annual reports by September 1st each year thereafter. The annual reports shall provide at least the following information: (1) How the education ombudsman's services have been used and by whom;

(2) Methods for the education ombudsman to increase and enhance family and community involvement in public education;

(3) Recommendations to eliminate barriers and obstacles to meaningful family and community involvement in public education; and

(4) Strategies to improve the educational opportunities for all students in the state, including recommendations from organizations and groups provided in this act.

"AN ACT Relating to education."