A bill for an act relating to education, including by modifying provisions related to the calculation of the teacher salary supplement district cost per pupil, teacher preparation requirements, out-of-state placement of certain specified students requiring special education, the duties of the department of education, and minimum teacher salaries, and including effective date provisions.

2025-2026 Regular Session

SF 442 reforms education by adjusting teacher salary calculations, easing teacher prep requirements, and allowing out-of-state placements for special education students.

Committee report approving bill, renumbered as SF 442.

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Purpose and Intent

SSB 1100, now renumbered as SF 442, is a proposed legislative bill aimed at reforming various aspects of education within the state. The bill seeks to modify provisions related to teacher salary supplements, teacher preparation requirements, special education placements, and the responsibilities of the Department of Education. The overarching goal is to enhance educational quality and accessibility for students, particularly those requiring special education services.

Key Provisions

The bill includes several significant changes:

1. Teacher Salary Supplement

Modification of Calculation: The bill revises how the teacher salary supplement district cost per pupil is calculated, potentially impacting funding allocations for school districts.

2. Teacher Preparation Requirements

Student Teaching Experience: The requirement for participants in teacher preparation programs to submit an employment offer with their application for a teacher intern license has been removed. This change aims to streamline the process for aspiring teachers.

3. Out-of-State Placement for Special Education

Placement Provisions: The bill allows a child’s district of residence to place students requiring special education in out-of-state facilities or with out-of-state providers. This is contingent upon an agreement between the district and the provider.

Financial Responsibility: The district is not financially responsible for services provided by out-of-state facilities unless proper notice and agreements are established.

Cost Accounting: Districts may submit an accounting of costs incurred for services provided by out-of-state facilities by August 1 following the school year, with the Department of Education required to review and process these accounts by August 15.

4. Duties of the Department of Education

The bill outlines specific responsibilities for the Department of Education concerning the oversight of agreements and financial transactions related to out-of-state placements.

Affected Parties

Students: Particularly those requiring special education services who may benefit from placements in out-of-state facilities.

School Districts: Changes in funding calculations and responsibilities for out-of-state placements will directly impact district operations and budgeting.

Teachers and Aspiring Teachers: The modifications to teacher preparation requirements may encourage more individuals to enter the teaching profession.

Procedural Aspects

Introduced: February 4, 2025

Committee Actions: The bill has passed through subcommittees and received committee approval as of February 25, 2025, leading to its renumbering as SF 442.

Timeline: The bill is currently in the legislative process, with further discussions and potential amendments expected as it moves through the legislative chambers.

Conclusion

SSB 1100 (SF 442) represents a significant step towards enhancing educational opportunities and support for both teachers and students, particularly in the realm of special education. By modifying financial structures and administrative requirements, the bill aims to create a more responsive and effective educational system.

Bill

Summary of SSB 1100 (Renumbered as SF 442)