Subject of Possible Rule Making: Amendments to chapter 392-502 WAC, On-line learning -- Approval of multidistrict on-line providers.

     Statutes Authorizing the Agency to Adopt Rules on this Subject: RCW 28A.250.020.

     Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: ESHB 2065 (2011) broadened the approval requirements from "multidistrict" on-line providers to include all on-line providers. This has highlighted several issues with the current approval process. The proposed revisions solve the issues by adding a "single-district" provider path. Those programs that aren't multidistrict, and who are not wholly adopting an approved provider's program, will be able to be approved using a streamlined process. This new process reduces the burden on districts and the office of superintendent of public instruction, while still maintaining the proper oversight and accountability, as these programs must agree to the provider "assurances" and are subject to rescindment.

     Other Federal and State Agencies that Regulate this Subject and the Process Coordinating the Rule with These Agencies: None.

     Process for Developing New Rule: Solicitation of public comments and recommendations respecting new, amended or repealed rules, and considerations of the comments and recommendations in the course of drafting rules.

     Interested parties can participate in the decision to adopt the new rule and formulation of the proposed rule before publication by contacting Karl Nelson, Director, Digital Learning Department, (206) 616-9940, karl.nelson@k12.wa.us, 4507 University Way N.E., Suite 204, Seattle, WA 98105.

March 26, 2012

Randy Dorn

State Superintendent

of Public Instruction

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