SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 5973
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. |
As of December 9, 2011
Title: An act relating to revised standards and assessments for teacher certification integrating STEM knowledge and skills.
Brief Description: Regarding revised standards and assessments for teacher certification integrating STEM knowledge and skills.
Sponsors: Senators Eide, Fain, McAuliffe, Litzow, Kastama, Hewitt, Chase and Tom; by request of Governor Gregoire.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Early Learning & K-12 Education: 12/14/11.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON EARLY LEARNING & K-12 EDUCATION |
Staff: Stephanie Christensen (786-7405)
Background: The Professional Educator Standards Board (PESB) establishes state policies and requirements for the preparation and certification of education professionals. PESB performs regular reviews and revisions of teacher certification standards, including standards for teacher assessments and certificate renewal.
Summary of Bill: PESB will revise standards for teacher endorsement in elementary education; middle and secondary math and science; and other subjects with science, technology, engineering, or math (STEM) components. The revised standards for math must be adopted by September 1, 2013. The revised standards for science must be adopted by September 1, 2014.
The revised standards must include the integration of STEM knowledge and skill, and be aligned with common core mathematics and science standards. The standards will also be aligned with the 2009 revision of state mathematics student learning standards and performance expectations, and the biology end-of-course assessment.
PESB will also revise assessments for prospective teachers and teachers adding subject-area endorsements, and the evidence-based assessment of teacher effectiveness. The assessments will be revised to measure the revised teacher certification standards.
In addition, PESB will revise certificate renewal rules for teachers at the elementary and secondary levels in STEM-related subjects by September 1, 2014. The revised rules must require that continuing education plans for these teachers include a specific focus on the integration of STEM subjects.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Requested on December 7, 2011.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.