| Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research |
BILL ANALYSIS |
| Education Committee | |
SB 6534
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: Regarding the revision of mathematics standards.
Sponsors: Senators McAuliffe and Tom.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 2/21/08
Staff: Barbara McLain (786-7383).
Background:
The Superintendent of Public Instruction (SPI) has the responsibility to develop and revise the
learning standards that identify the knowledge and skills expected from public school students in
various academic content areas. If the SPI proposes any modification to the learning standards,
then the SPI must, upon request, provide opportunities for the education committees of the
Legislature to review the proposed modifications before they are adopted.
In 2007, the Legislature directed the State Board of Education (SBE) and the SPI to undertake a
revision of the learning standards in mathematics and science using a specified process. First,
the SBE recommends revisions to the learning standards based on a set of review criteria. The
SBE engages national consultants and creates citizen advisory panels to assist with this work.
The report from the SBE and its consultant was completed September 30, 2007, and
recommended a series of improvements that should be made to the mathematics learning
standards.
Next, the SPI must revise the learning standards based on the recommendations and present them
to the Legislature. The mathematics learning standards were presented January 31, 2008.
Finally, the SPI adopts the revised learning standards and grade level expectations unless
otherwise directed by the Legislature during the 2008 legislative session.
Summary of Bill:
The Legislature intends that the revised mathematics standards by the SPI will fortify content
and increase rigor; provide greater clarity, specificity, and measurability of what is expected of
students; supply more explicit guidance for educators; enhance the relevance of mathematics to
students, and ultimately result in more Washington students having the opportunity to be
successful in mathematics. Additionally, the revised standards should make clear the importance
of all aspects of mathematics, including content, conceptual understanding, and application.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.