SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 6020
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 January 18, 2012
Title: An act relating to waivers from the one hundred eighty-day school year requirement.
Brief Description: Regarding waivers from the one hundred eighty-day school year.
Sponsors: Senators Rolfes, Hewitt, McAuliffe and Conway.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Early Learning & K-12 Education: 1/19/12.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON EARLY LEARNING & K-12 EDUCATION |
Staff: Lidia Mori (786-7755)
Background: Current law requires each school district's kindergarten through grade 12 basic educational program to consist of a minimum of 180 school days per school year and 180 half days of instruction, or equivalent, in kindergarten. The required half days for kindergarten are to be increased to a minimum of 180 school days per school year in accordance with the implementation schedule in law pertaining to voluntary all-day kindergarten.
In 2009 the Legislature created a pilot program in which the State Board of Education (SBE) was given authority to grant waivers from the requirement for a 180-day school year to school districts that propose to operate one or more schools on a flexible calendar for purposes of economy and efficiency. Waivers may be granted for up to three years and the pilot program expires August 31, 2014. SBE may only grant five school districts these waivers: two to districts with student populations under 150; and three to districts with student populations between 150 and 500. A school district seeking a waiver from the requirement for a 180-day school year must submit an application, a signed resolution, and all supporting documentation to SBE.
Summary of Bill: Waivers from the requirement for a 180-day school year must be extended until August 31, 2014, for school districts that received an initial waiver that will expire before August 31, 2014, unless SBE's annual review determines that student learning has been adversely affected by the waiver.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.