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

HB 1778

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Brief Description: Modernizing Washington state history and government high school graduation requirements.

Sponsors: Representatives Wallace, Dunn, Kenney, Haigh, Hasegawa, B. Sullivan, Darneille, McDermott, Takko, Roberts, Schual-Berke and Santos.

Brief Summary of Bill
  • Revises high school graduation requirements to include a course that covers Washington State and the global economy.

Hearing Date: 2/15/07

Staff: Andrew Colvin (786-7304).

Background:

High school graduation requirements are established by the State Board of Education. Current graduation requirements include 2.5 credits in social studies, which must in turn include .5 credits in Washington State history and government. Course work in Washington State history and government must include study of the state's Constitution, and is encouraged to include information about the history, culture, and government of the American Indian people.

Summary of Bill:

The high school graduation requirements established by the State Board of Education shall include a course that covers Washington State and the global economy. Content of the course must include, but is not limited to:

The Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) shall develop a curriculum consistent with the specified course requirements and that meets the OSPI's requirements for classroom-based assessments. The OSPI shall make the curriculum available for voluntary use by school districts beginning with the 2008-09 school year.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Requested on February 6, 2007.

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