• Make the Most Out of "The Main Idea" with Our March 8 Webinar

    by Julie Woods | Feb 22, 2023
    Image of Jenn David-Lang

     

    Did you know about this AMAZING AWSP member benefit?

    • YOU: A busy school leader who wants to invest in your professional learning and read all the education books but is short on time
    • US: Your professional membership association who is here to help
    • THE MAIN IDEA: An awesome member benefit from Jenn David-Lang that allows you to access a condensed summary and resources about the latest and most important education reads
    We're hosting a webinar on Wednesday, March 8, from 4:30-5:30 p.m. to walk members through an AWSP benefit called The Main Idea from Jenn David-Lang that just might change your life! (In fact, we're sure it will.) Join this interactive session to learn ways to develop your own habit of professional reading and use that reading to improve your school! You will also walk away with two great tools to conduct PD with your own teachers.

    What exactly is The Main Idea? It's a monthly subscription service for busy school leaders that provides a summary of current education and leadership books. This summary contains the core ideas of the book and organizes those ideas with enough details and examples so you can have a working knowledge of its content. The Main Idea also includes a full page of PD suggestions, so you can introduce the book’s ideas to your staff. A year-long subscription to The Main Idea includes free access to over 150 book summaries and workshops in a searchable archive. This subscription service is built into your AWSP membership. No additional purchase is required. 

    How will the Main Idea help me?
    • Learn the core ideas of 8-10 powerful education books a year
    • Improve your knowledge to improve your school
    • Stay current on education trends
    • Provide in-house professional development sessions
    • Use the ideas from the summaries in working with individual teachers
    • Rejuvenate yourself and your teachers by infusing your school with new ideas
  • School Celebration Newsletter | March 2023 Edition

    by David Morrill | Feb 21, 2023

    Celebrations

    The Month of Time Change, Spring, Leprechauns, and Anticipation for Break

    Happy March, Friends. There are so many lovely things that March brings to education. However, it is also one of the toughest months for our staff. I encourage you to simply choose 1 or 2 days to celebrate with your staff this month. Another great idea is to have "Secret Leprechauns" — think secret Santas — staff volunteer to be each others secret Leprechaun and surprise them with treats throughout the St. Patrick's Day Week. This is the month we all need a little inspiration so use this month's newsletter to inspire you to encourage and celebrate your team. Peace and Love, Cindy.

    March 1


    March Days to Celebrate

    March 1 | "National Peanut Butter Lover's Day" (not fair to those of us with peanut issues but....) |Provide staff with a buffet of peanut butter products (peanut butter cookies, nutter butter cookies, peanut butter cups). Or you could give staff an individual Jiff To Go Peanut Butter cup with their choice of a chocolate bar, apple, pretzel or banana to dip into their cup. Place a little sticker that says "to help charge your batteries when you are on the go."

    March 2 | "Read Across America Day" |Put a poster up on the wall in the staff room and encourage staff to write what they are currently reading and the audience it is written for.

    March 3 | “National Cold Cuts Day” | I am thinking of hosting a sandwich bar to celebrate today. Create a google for the necessities and have staff join in a “potluck” kinda of Friday. Staff could sign up for condiments, veggies, breads, cold cuts, and chips—all of the fixings to end the week.

    March 6 | “National Frozen Food Day” and “National Oreo Cookie Day” | Two simple ideas to celebrate—pick up some of the Oreo to go packages that have 6 cookies in them and hand them out to staff. Add a sticker wishing them a great day. As for National Frozen Food Day, what if you asked each staff member to donate a frozen food item to the staff freezer. These could be used for staff who forget their lunch.

    March 7 | "National Cereal Day"|Have a smorgasbord of travel cereals available for staff to greet them this morning. Include a little note of positivity such as "Breakfast the Meal of Educational Champions" or "Hope this starts your Tuesday off healthy and full."

    March 10 | "National Pack Your Lunch Day" |turn your staff room or another place staff eat into a fun "restaurant-like" atmosphere by using tablecloths, fake candles, music, place settings, real utensils, cloth napkins, and fresh flowers.

    March 10 | "National Ranch Day "|Similar to peanut butter day provide individual sides of ranch with various treats to dip into. This could include potato chips, a veggie tray, or a salad bar. Note: many stores have individual vegetable servings with ranch that are rather nominal. Include a sign that says "You are the BIG dipper to our students and families."

    March 14 | "National Pi Day" | Treat everyone to an individual pie.

    March 14 | National Potato Chip Day |This is ridiculously easy by going to your neighborhood store and picking up a variety pack of chips AND it is also “National Write Down Your Story Day”—what if you asked staff to write about a success they have had this month that will make a difference in someone else’s life? Stories could be shared in the staff room or use on your schools social media account.

    March 15 | "Ides of March" | Hello Shakespeare. End all of your conversations and announcements today by saying "et tu Brute?" PS I LOVE Shakespeare!!

    March 16 | "Absolutely Incredible Kid Day" |I LOVE this DAY. This is a fabulous day to ham up with your students and let them know this very special day was created to celebrate them.

    March 17 | "St. Patrick's Day" | Here is a fun idea. Go to the website: Just Candy and order the collection of green only candy. Put the green candy in glass jars to pretty them up (can be purchased at the dollar tree). Other ideas include guess how many pieces of candy are in the jar or how many ounces the corned beef weighs. (Purchase a couple and combine the weight closest guesses wins the corned beef)

    March 21 | “National French Bread Day” | Help staff figure out what they will have as part of their dinner tonight by purchasing a loaf of French Bread for everyone.

    March 22 | "World Water Day" | Everyone gets a bottle of water and they can choose from various mixtures and flavorings to add such as lemonade, Hawaiian punch, spark, or tea. Basically anything you can find the powdered drink section.

    March 23 | "National Chips and Dips Day" | Be creative with the various chips and dips you can find and create an afternoon snack for your team.

    March 24 | "National Chocolate Covered Raisins Day” | Easy one to pull of today!!

    March 28 | “National Something on a Stick Day” | Cake Pops in the afternoon to help everyone get through this Tuesday afternoon.

    March 30 | "National Pencil Day" | Everyone gets a new pencil today to celebrate how "sharp" they are.

    March 31| "National Crayon Day" and also more importantly my momma's birthday!! Happy birthday mom!! | On this very special day purchase a few adult stress relieving coloring books. (There are some great ones on line—make sure you are careful when ordering these—there are a few inappropriate ones available for purchase) Place the books and crayons in the staff room for staff to color and have a coloring competition. Students can vote on their favorite for a winner.


    Cindy is in her 23rd year as a school administrator. She is currently the principal of Kelso Virtual Academy and Loowit Alternative High School within the Kelso School District in Kelso, Washington. Cindy has been recognized by the National Association of Secondary School Principals as the 2021 National Digital Principal of the Year. She has two teenagers and has been married to her husband, Leszek for 23 years. Find her on Twitter @sholtys.

  • Legislative Update | Feb 13 - Feb 17, 2023

    by David Morrill | Feb 17, 2023


    legislative update header graphic

    Cutoff Week is Here

    The first cutoff of this year’s legislative session is today, February 17, where policy bills must pass out of their committee of origin. The deadline for bills to move out of fiscal committees (House Appropriations and Senate Ways and Means) is next Friday, February 24. My bill tracking list will thankfully get shorter tomorrow, and we’ll be able to focus on the significant bills that remain in play. 

    Update on the Principal Bills

    SB 5085, our principal bill, has a striking amendment posted on the Senate Floor Calendar. While it has not yet been scheduled for a vote, we hope that happens soon. You’ll see in this amendment that the revised bill would still do these three things:

    • provide more protections for assistant principals, 

    • allow principals and assistant principals to retain years of experience as educators if transferring to different roles, 

    • and clarify required training for evaluations. 

    In addition, this amendment removes the section that would have allowed principals and assistant principals to bargain working conditions. We asked Senator Lisa Wellman to remove this language after many hours of conversation with our board members and after meeting several times with WASA. We plan to meet soon with WASA to begin identifying tangible solutions that will attract, retain, and sustain our school leaders. 

    At the same time, Senator Kevin Van De Wege came forward with an idea to provide a minimum salary for assistant principals that is 5% higher than the maximum salary on each district’s teacher salary schedule (base pay) and a minimum salary for principals that is 15% higher than the maximum salary on each district’s teacher salary schedule (base pay). There is also a clause that assures that no one would go backward from their current salary. We don’t know the financial impact or cost of this amendment. We hope these gaps already exists in the majority of our districts, but we know that this may not be the case everywhere.

    Senator Wellman also introduced SB 5175 which would allow (not require) districts to offer principals up to a three-year contract. This bill moved out of the Senate Early Learning and K-12 Committee and was recently pulled a step closer by the Senate Rules Committee to being placed on the Senate Floor Calendar. 

    Both of these bills address some important pieces to provide greater job protection and support for you. We know the demands of your job are significant. We also believe these changes are critical in order to attract future leaders. Stay tuned for much more about these bills next week. 

    Policy Bills

    Several important bills had major revisions this week as they moved out of the education committees. Bill reports provided by nonpartisan staff are always helpful in understanding each bill’s key aspects (and the subsequent changes made to each draft), but they aren’t yet ready as of this writing. I will get a better sense of the substantive changes made to each bill from reading the updated versions and the very helpful bill reports. Until then, here are links to some key bills:

    • HB 1479 | Concerning Restraint and Isolation

    • HB 1550 | Establishing a Transition to Kindergarten Program

    • HB 1504 | Elementary Recess (companion bill in the Senate SB 5257

    • SB 5670 | Permitting 10th Graders in Running Start (this bill was amended this week to allow 10th graders to take only online courses and only five credits/quarter)

    • SB 5048 | Eliminating College in the High School Fees

    Here is the complete list of bills I’m tracking. (We’ll update this over the weekend after the February 17 cutoff.)

    Get Involved

    Our advocacy efforts need all of our voices to contribute to the process. There are many different ways (big and small) that you can get involved in these efforts. Your participation can be as easy as doing an action alert to email your legislators or signing in support of a specific bill. Or, if you feel really passionate about a particular bill, we would love to have you testify. It takes all of us to make an impact!

    If you have questions or comments or want to get involved, please reach out to me.

  • Retirement & Health Benefits for February 17, 2023

    by Julie Woods | Feb 17, 2023


    Retirement Blog

     

    Fiscal note; State of Washington

    “Non-zero but indeterminate cost and/or savings.”

     Committee Agenda: State of Washington

    PUBLIC HEARING

    “BILLS TO BE DETERMINED.”

    The focus is and will remain so for this week and next on moving bills through committee Executive Sessions to their respective Rules’ Committees. The few that advance will be placed on floor calendars for possible passage. (March 8th is the deadline for bills to have cleared their house of origin.)

    Caveat: Bills that are necessary to implement the budget (NTIB) remain alive beyond any of these deadlines. (Although, what makes a bill NTIB is fairly loosely defined.)

    The difficulty in tracking and understanding proposed legislation is often because of the quotes given above. Information is either not available or late to announce. The process is akin to a living, evolving organism whose final appearance may well be a surprise.

    Given the above, listed below are bills that appear to be moving or have made it to the opposite house.

    Retirement Related Proposals

    To repeat: Previous reports have covered the bills related to addressing the lack of a cost-of-living increase (COLA) for members in TRS/PERS Plans 1. They are HB 1057/SB 5350, HB 1201/SB 5294, and HB 1459. These all had public hearings but have yet to be scheduled for Executive Session in their respective committees.

    At this point, all the bills are in limbo. There is division between the House and Senate approach and division within their own caucus groups as to which pension proposal to support.  

    SHB 1007: Concerning interruptive military service credit for members of the state retirement systems.

    Comment: Retirement credit can be awarded in any armed conflicts if the participant was awarded the respective campaign or expeditionary badge or medal…. the ‘expeditionary badge' qualifier was added.

    HB 1007 passed the House 97/0 and has moved to the Senate Ways and Means.

    HB 1008Concerning participating in insurance plans and contracts by separated Plan 2 members of certain retirement systems.

    Comment: This bill would simply make retiree insurance provisions uniform and equitable for Plan 2 and 3 members.

    HB 1008 passed the House 93/0 and has been moved to Senate Ways and Means.

    SHB 1056/ SB 5349: Repealing some post-retirement employment restrictions.

    Comment: Beginning January 1, 2024, any current or future retiree under the provisions of early retirement may utilize the 32 postretirement employment provisions of RCW 41.32.802(2) for up to 867 hours per year.

    SHB 1056 passed the House 93/0 and has moved to Senate Ways and Means. SB 5349 is in Senate Rules.

    SSB 5121Extending the expiration date of the joint select committee on health care oversight.

    Comment: The expiration date of this committee is to be extended. Its goal must be to ensure that these multiple health and insurance regulatory agencies are not duplicating their efforts and are working toward a goal of increased quality of services leading to reduced costs to the health care consumer.

    Passed Senate 48/0 and has moved to the House Health Care and Wellness Committee.

    SB 5169: Concerning health care plans administered by the health care authority that is available to Medicare-eligible retirees.

    Comment: Requires the Public Employee Benefits Board to allow Medicare-eligible retirees access to the Uniform Medical Plan Classic-Medicare plan. • Directs the Health Care Authority to report to the Legislature by December 1, 2023, with its findings related to stakeholder engagement related to affordable government self-insured plans with benefits that are equal to or richer than Uniform Medical Plan Classic-Medicare.

    Scheduled for Executive Session 2/16 before Senate Health Care committee.

    Other Areas of Potential Fiscal Impact (and often unfunded) to Districts

    SHB 1068Concerning injured workers' rights during compelled medical examinations.

    Comment: This allows an injured worker to make an audio and video recording of a compelled medical examination and to have one person of the worker's choosing present during the examination. 

    This bill passed the House 65/33 and will be moved to the Senate Health and Long-term Care Committee.

    SHB 1105:  Requiring public agencies to provide notice for public comment that includes the last date by which such public comment must be submitted.

    Comment: Mandates a public agency that is required to solicit public comment for a statutorily specified period of time and to provide notice that it is soliciting public comment to include in the notice the last day by which written public comment may be submitted. Makes an agency that violates the requirement to include in a notice for public comment the last day by which written comment may be submitted subject to a civil penalty of $500 for the first violation and $1000 for any subsequent violation.

    This has been moved to Rules Committee.

    SHB 1106Concerning qualifications for unemployment insurance when an individual voluntarily leaves work.

    Comment: Expands access to unemployment insurance benefits by adding circumstances where a person may voluntarily quit for good cause.

    This bill has been placed on House floor calendar for possible action.

    SHB 1136: Requiring employers to reimburse employees for necessary expenditures and losses.

    Comment: Requires employers to reimburse employees for all necessary expenditures and losses incurred in direct consequence of their duties.

    This bill has been moved to the House floor calendar for possible action.

    HB 1187: Concerning privileged communication between employees and the unions that represent them.

    Comment: To effectuate the public policy favoring effective collective bargaining, it is necessary to protect confidential union–employee communications in the course of union representation against disclosure.

    Scheduled for Executive Session on 2/10 before House Labor Committee.

    HB 1200: Requiring public employers to provide employee information to exclusive bargaining representatives.

    Comment: Requires certain public employers to provide exclusive bargaining representatives' information, such as contact information, date of hire, salary, and job site location of employees in bargaining units if the employer has that information in its records. Allows an exclusive bargaining representative to bring a court action if a public employer fails to comply with the requirement to provide information.

    HB 1200 has been moved to House Rules.

     EHB 1210 Concerning the recording of school board meetings.

    Comment: Specifies that a public records request for recordings of school district board of directors meetings must include the date of the meetings requested or a range of dates. Provides that searches for public records need not include recordings of school district board meetings unless a date is given. Requires all school district board meetings to be audio recorded, subject to exceptions for executive sessions and emergencies, with recordings kept for at least one year. Encourages school districts to make the content of school board of directors meetings available in formats accessible to individuals who need communication assistance and in languages other than English.

    This bill passed House 96/1 and has been moved to the Senate State Government Committee for a public hearing 2/17.

    SHB 1248Concerning pupil transportation.

    Comment: Requires the Superintendent of Public Instruction to provide transportation safety net awards to school districts with excess special passenger costs for special education, homeless, and foster students, as defined in the operating budget. • Requires that school district contracts for pupil transportation services must include sufficient funds to provide employees of the contracting employer with health benefits and pension contributions equivalent to those of school district classified employees. • Provides one-time supplemental allocations to districts that experience higher costs because of the new contract requirements.

    This bill has been moved to House Rules for possible action.

    SHB 1320: Concerning access to personnel records.

    Comment: Specifies that an employer must provide the employee's complete, unredacted personnel file within 14 calendar days of the request from the employee, former employee, or their attorney, agent, or fiduciary. • Requires an employer to provide to a former employee, upon request, a statement of the employee's discharge date and reasons, if any, for the discharge. • • Creates a private cause of action to enforce the requirements. Requires the Department of Labor and Industries and the Employment Security Department to provide employers with information regarding the employer's obligations and the employee's rights.

    Has been moved to House Rules for possible action.

    HB 1785: Establishing COVID-19 as an occupational disease.

    Comment: The legislature finds that it is an important and essential protection for workers who contracted COVID-19 during the COVID-19 pandemic to be fully protected and covered under our workers' compensation system.

    A public hearing is scheduled for 2/17 before House Labor Committee.

    SB 5059:  Concerning prejudgment interest.

    Comment: This was proposed last session. Briefly stated, judgments founded on the tortious conduct of a "public agency" shall bear interest from the date (of entry) the cause of action accrued. So if a district is found liable for neglecting to act in a child’s best interest years after the fact, it will pay a penalty and interest from the day the neglect/damage first occurred, from the date the action is commenced, or the date the minor attains the age of eighteen years, whichever is earlier.

    A public hearing was held 2/7 before Senate Ways and Means. No further action has yet been scheduled.

    SSB 5061/SHB 1320: Concerning access to personnel records.

    Comment: Requires an employer to furnish an employee with a complete, unredacted copy of their personnel file at no cost within 14 calendar days of a request. • Mandates an employer to furnish a former employee with a signed written statement with the effective date of discharge, whether the employer had a reason for the discharge, and if so, the reasons, within 14 calendar days of the written request. • Allows an employee or former employee to bring a private action for violations of certain rights regarding personnel files, discharge information, and redaction logs, and entitles the employee to equitable relief, graduated statutory damages up to $1,000, and reasonable attorneys' fees and costs of each violation.

    SHB 1320 includes: Requires the Department of Labor and Industries and the Employment Security Department to provide employers with information regarding the employer's obligations and the employee's rights.

    SSB 5061 referred to Ways and Means on 2/8. SHB 1320 has been moved to Rules for possible action.

    SB 5084/HB 1558: Creating a separate fund for the purposes of self-insured pensions and assessments.

    Comment: Creates a self-insurance reserve fund for payments from self-insured employers related to workers' compensation pensions and from the overpayments reimbursement fund.

    SB 5084 is in Senate Rules. HB 1558 is in House Rules.

    SSB 5123: Concerning the employment of individuals who lawfully consume cannabis.

    Comment: Prohibits employers, with some exceptions, from discriminating against a person in hiring if the discrimination is based on the person's use of cannabis outside of work or on certain employer-required drug screening tests.

    Passed to Rules Committee.

    SSB 5237: Establishing complaint procedures to address noncompliance with certain state education laws.

    Comment: Directs the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) to establish procedures to investigate and address complaints alleging noncompliance with state laws concerning civil rights; harassment, intimidation, and bullying; certain curriculum requirements; the use of restraint or isolation on a student; and student discipline. • Requires school districts to submit compliance action plans if OSPI finds noncompliance with any of these state laws and allows OSPI to impose certain consequences. • Amends the oath that elected or appointed school directors take to include that they must support Washington laws.

    Currently in Senate Ways and Means committee.

    SB 5240/ HB 1656: Concerning unemployment insurance benefits appeal procedures.

    Comment: A dispute of an individual's initial determination, determination of allowance or denial of allowance of benefits, or redetermination of allowance or denial of benefits, all matters covered by such initial determination, determination, or redetermination shall be deemed to be in issue subject to appeal.

    SB 5240 has been sent to Senate Rules Committee. HB 1656 is in House Rules.

    SB 5275: Expanding access to benefits provided by the school employees' benefits board.

    Comment: Allows tribal compact schools, employee organizations representing school employees, and school board directors the option of providing health care through the School Employees' Benefits Board.

    Moved to Senate Rules; awaiting further action.

    SSB 5286: Modifying the premium provisions of the Paid Family and Medical Leave program.

    Comment: Amends the premium rate calculation in the Paid Family and Medical Leave program (PFML) to be based on a specified formula rather than the Family and Medical Leave Insurance Account (Account) balance ratio on September 30th of the previous year. Sets a maximum rate of 1.2 percent and removes the Employment Security Department's authority to assess a solvency surcharge if the Account balance ratio falls below a certain threshold.

    Passed Senate 48/0 and moved to House 2/3, awaiting a date for public hearing before House Labor.

    SB 5485: Concerning public employee reimbursement for child and adult dependent care expenses.

    Comment: Allows for public employees to seek reimbursement of childcare and adult dependent care expenses incurred while traveling on official business.

    Before Senate Ways and Means awaiting scheduling.

    Fred Yancey
    The Nexus Group LLC

  • Special Education and 504 Tips & Resources | February 17, 2023

    by David Morrill | Feb 17, 2023

     

    image of inclusion cutout people

    The content from this post comes from Dr. Whitehead's weekly email.


    These emails are sent out weekly to leaders in special education and Section 504. Each email contains tips and resources on a variety of topics that are meant to keep you informed and up to date. Please consult your district attorney if you are looking for legal advice, as this is out of my realm. The opinions contained herein are my own.

    Please feel free to reach out if you have ideas on topics and resources. This week’s emails include links to information on: 

    Everyone:
    Thanks for being in the arena
    Update To HB 1479, the Restraint and Isolation Bill

    504:
    Culturally responsive teaching

    Special Education & 504 Case Law:
    National Compilation of Case Law 1998 to Present — NEW
    Section 504 and ADA — February Edition

    Special Education:
    Paraprofessional Support Article

    Legislative Tracker Link

    • Yellow — OSPI requested
    • Purple — Sped 

    OSPI:
    February Updates


    Upcoming Classes and Events:

    Special Education Teacher PD

  • Veteran Principals, New Principals, Assistant Principals - We NEED You, and Your Colleagues NEED You!

    by David Morrill | Feb 15, 2023

    image of group of people collaborating

    We'd Love For You to Get Involved

    Are you looking for a way to get involved with AWSP and serve with your colleagues from across your region and state? We have the perfect opportunity for you! Applications to serve on a Grade Level Leadership Committee (GLLC) are open!

    Serving on a GLLC as a Regional Representative launches you into a regional and statewide network of other school leaders walking the same leadership journey as you. Principal voice has never mattered so much as it does now, and in this role, you will advocate for what is best for kids and your fellow school leaders. Individually, you bring your experience, background, and context to the table, and collectively your voices can inform good and bad policy decisions at the state and national levels. 

    Your commitment is to a three-year term, and our meetings are scheduled far in advance, which should provide adequate time to make calendar arrangements on your end. We have also shifted many of our in-person meetings to more regularly scheduled virtual gatherings in an effort to increase access, voice, and participation while also reducing your time out of the building.

    Need some more convincing? Here’s what some of our current GLLC Representatives had to say when asked, “Why should someone get involved by serving on a GLLC? What have you gained through serving?”    


    Testimonials

    I enjoy serving on the GLLC and consider it a privilege.  I have met and learned from smart, caring, dedicated principals from around the state.  The other GLLC principals provide mentorship, and my capacity has increased because of the time we spend together on job-related issues and topics.  I have also benefitted from the guidance, time and support from the AWSP leadership team.  They understand our jobs and ensure our meetings contain relevant topics and time to problem solve in small groups.  

    Tom Adams, Principal Curtis High School | ESD 121 High School Regional Rep

    I have had the privilege to be part of the middle level GLLC for most of the 10 years I have been a principal. Being involved has provided me the best professional development I have experienced as an administrator, and an unmatched network of colleagues who are knowledgeable, supportive, and fun. I am a far better principal than I otherwise would have been, had I not had someone tap me on the shoulder and invite me to get involved.

    Dave Riddle, Principal LaVenture Middle School | ESD 189 Middle Level AWSP Pres Elect/Past Chair/Regional Rep

    My experience with AWSP has provided the best professional development during my last 22 years of being a principal. It is timely, relevant and applicable. I love the friendships I have developed over the years with so many principals from all over the state. I have the best network of support with principals and AWSP staff that anyone could hope for. Joining a GLLC is an excellent investment in your career.

    Erika Burden, Principal Westwood Middle | Budget/ESD 101 Middle Level Regional Rep

    Being a part of AWSP has been good for me in many ways:    
    • It keeps me current on best practices.
    • Ongoing professional development.
    • Friendships across the state that I would have never had otherwise.
    • It has pushed me out of my comfort zone.
    • I am a better leader.

    Stephanie Teel, St Helens Elementary | ESD 112 Budget Chair/Elementary Regional Rep

    I enjoy the strong network of trusted professionals who know what I am going through and provide valuable support and ideas to help me navigate the work in my building.

     

    Derek Forbes, Principal Meridian HS/Meridian SD CTE Director | NASSP/ESD 189 High School Regional Rep

    I have had the privilege to be part of the middle level GLLC for most of the 10 years I have been a principal. Being involved has provided me the best professional development I have experienced as an administrator, and an unmatched network of colleagues who are knowledgeable, supportive, and fun. I am a far better principal than I otherwise would have been, had I not had someone tap me on the shoulder and invite me to get involved.

    Dave Riddle, Principal LaVenture Middle School | AWSP Pres Elect, Past Chair, ESD 189 Middle Level Regional Rep


    Video Testimonials

    Woody Howard, Principal Ben Franklin Elementary | ESD 112 Chair/Elementary Regional Rep        

     


    Miranda Smallwood, Principal Kingston High School | ESD 114 Regional Rep

     


    Theresa Shinn, Assistant Principal Wapato Middle | ESD 105 Middle Level Chair/Regional Rep


    Tricia Kannberg, Principal Deer Park Elementary | ESD 101 Past Chair/Elementary Regional Rep


    ESD Openings

    Apply Now

    If you have any questions, please reach out to julie@awsp.org or 360-357-7951.

  • Meet Next Level Leaders: Washington State's Premiere Leadership Development Academy

    by Caroline Brumfield | Feb 14, 2023

    Next Level Leaders Blog Header


    AWSP and WASA are thrilled to announce the launch of Next Level Leaders, Washington State's Premiere Leadership Development Academy. How did Next Level Leaders come about? In March 2020, educational leaders across Washington entered a new dawn of leadership. In this era, leaders must quickly adapt how schools operate, communicate in a timely and transparent manner, unify stakeholders, build a culture of inclusion and belonging, and nurture the talents of the students and the staff we serve. The landscape of school leadership has shifted. Next Level Leaders is a response to that shift.

    Next Level Leaders is dedicated to preparing leaders to conquer complex challenges through the development of a two-year learning community. The Academy is designed to focus on individual and system leadership behaviors and actions essential for success in our rapidly changing educational environment. Find out more on our Next Level Leaders fact sheet.

    AWSP and WASA are seeking a Program Coordinator for Next Level Leaders. The role of this position will include coordinating content and program development under the direction of AWSP & WASA and in conjunction with educational consultants and agencies, to ensure participants are developing leadership skills aligned to current research and best practices. Learn more about the position or apply through the job posting in AWSP's new Career Center.

    Next Level Leaders is a partnership of AWSP and WASA with Legislative funding.


  • Principal Raquel Martinez of Pasco is Named First Latina President of NASSP

    by Julie Woods | Feb 13, 2023

     

    headshot of Raquel Martinez

     

    AWSP’s very own Raquel Martinez, principal of Isaac Stevens Middle School in Pasco, has been named the National Association of Secondary School Principals’ (NASSP) new president-elect. Martinez has served on the NASSP Board of Directors as part of the Advocacy and Governance Committees. She is the first Latina president of NASSP.

    Martinez’s background and upbringing have helped her succeed as a principal leading a school of just over 95% Hispanic students (Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction). In an article from EdWeek by Denisa R. Superville, Martinez is described as one who “hopes that seeing someone with a similar background in such a visible role will help students set high expectations for themselves.” 

    NASSP is thrilled to welcome Martinez to the position of President-Elect. According to NASSP CEO Ronn Nozoe, in their press release, Martinez “has the experience, character, and passion needed to advocate for an equitable system that works for all students and educators.”

    When asked about finding someone to serve on the national board from our state, Dr. Scott Seaman, Executive Director of the Association of Washington School Principals, said that was an easy decision. “Diversity aside, her reputation in the region as a tremendous student-centered leader and tireless advocate for creating a hope-filled school is why I approached Raquel,” Seaman said. Five years later, she “still leads with humility” and is a “true blessing” to education.

    Congratulations, Raquel! We are so proud of you.

    Read more at:

     Tri-City Herald: First Latina Selected to Lead National Principals Group

    EdWeek Article: First Latina Selected to Lead National Principals Group


  • Special Education and 504 Tips & Resources | February 10, 2023

    by Caroline Brumfield | Feb 12, 2023

     

    image of inclusion cutout people

    The content from this post comes from Dr. Whitehead's weekly email.


    These emails are sent out weekly to leaders in special education and Section 504. Each email contains tips and resources on a variety of topics that are meant to keep you informed and up to date. Please consult your district attorney if you are looking for legal advice, as this is out of my realm. The opinions contained herein are my own.

    Please feel free to reach out if you have ideas on topics and resources. This week’s emails include links to information on: 

    Everyone:
    6 Tips for Reflection and Helping Educators with Mindfulness

    504:
    ADHD Accommodations

    Special Education & 504 Case Law:
    National Compilation of Case Law 1998 to Present — NEW
    Section 504 and ADA — February Edition

    Special Education:
    TAP No 6: Paraeducators and Students Eligible to Receive Special Education Services—Thank you Shawn Brown for sharing this with another colleague. 

    Legislative Tracker Link

    • Yellow — OSPI requested
    • Purple — Sped 

    OSPI:
    January Updates


    Upcoming Classes and Events:

  • Legislative Update | Feb 6 - Feb 10, 2023

    by Julie Woods | Feb 10, 2023


    legislative update header graphic


    Cut-off is Coming!

    This was essentially the last week that new policy bills were heard in committees as the cutoff for bills to pass out of committees of their house of origin is next Friday, February 17. Next week’s committee hearings will focus more on executive session when bills may be amended and then formally passed out of committee or not. After next week, my bill tracking list will definitely be smaller as some bills won’t make it.

    The momentum is shifting to talking about the fiscal implication of bills. The next cutoff date is Friday, February 24 when bills need to pass out of fiscal committees in both the House and the Senate.

    Special Education Funding

    Bills in both the House and Senate related to increasing funding for special education were heard this week. SB 5311 has been improved from its original bill to provide a greater level of funding. The special education funding cap would increase from 13.5% to 15% and the multipliers increase as well. On the other hand, the substitute bill for HB 1436 lowers the funding. There are some steps to increase the cap and the multipliers, but it is much less than the initial bill. In addition, funding for the Inclusionary Practices Project was also removed which is very concerning. We know that there have been fantastic strides in professional learning and instructional practices related to Inclusionary Practices and this good work needs to continue.

    Bill Updates

    Here’s an update to the most talked about bills this session. 

    • There is a revised bill for HB 1550 related to Transitional Kindergarten. The House Education Committee should take action on this bill next week. 

    • Meetings continue next week to keep working through revisions to HB 1479, the Restraint and Isolation bill. 

    • The Senate version of the Recess Bill, SB 5257, was amended to require only 30 minutes of recess (rather than 45 minutes). The companion bill in the House, HB 1504, had a hearing this week and is scheduled for executive action next week.

    • SB 5085, our principal bill, has a substitute version that is now available that no longer includes the section on “working conditions” but now includes a section that would provide a minimum salary for assistant principals that is 5% higher than the highest paid teacher and a minimum salary for principals that would be 15% higher than the highest paid teacher. In addition, there is a clause that assures that no one would go backward from their current salary. Our intent with this bill is to provide greater job protections and supports for you because we know that the demands of your job are significant. We also believe we need to make some changes in order to attract future leaders.

    • There are several bills related to dual credit courses and an effort to reduce the costs of College in the High School programs for students. I testified “con” this week on SB 5670 that would allow 10th grade students to take online Running Start courses only and have heard that there is an amendment in the works to narrow the scope of that bill. HB 1308 would add a performance pathway as an option for districts to use as a graduation pathway and this bill looks to be moving forward. There are companion bills (HB 1273 and SB SB 5243) that would provide a common High School and Beyond Plan platform and make some other modifications to this graduation requirement.

    For the full list of bills being heard this week, check out my complete bill tracking document

    Our advocacy efforts need all of our voices to contribute to the process. There are many different ways (big and small) that you can get involved in these efforts. Your participation can be as easy as doing an action alert to email your legislators or signing in support of a specific bill. Or, if you feel really passionate about a specific bill, we would love to have you testify. It takes all of us to make an impact!

    If you have questions or comments or want to get involved, please reach out to me.


     

  • Retirement & Health Benefits for February 10, 2023

    by Julie Woods | Feb 10, 2023


    Retirement Blog

    “I learned a long time ago the wisest thing I can do is to be on my own side, be an advocate for myself and others like me.” Maya Angelou

    Educate patiently, advocate passionately, and inspire consistently.

    The importance of advocacy cannot be overstated. Legislators need to continually hear from those impacted by proposed legislation. A lobbyist can keep issues in front of legislators, but those most closely impacted, particularly constituents, carry much more weight. Enough said.

    Listed below are bills that appear to be moving. Some previously reported bills have been dropped but may re-appear in future reports.

    Retirement Related Proposals

    Previous reports have covered the bills related to addressing the lack of a cost-of-living increase (COLA) for members in TRS/PERS Plans 1. They are HB 1057/SB 5350, HB 1201/SB 5294, and HB 1459. These all had public hearings, but have yet to be scheduled for Executive Session in their respective committees.

    A little background: HB 1201 and HB 1459 have been suggested as a package deal. Last session’s supplemental budget ‘parked’ $800 million dollars earmarked to pay down the unfunded liability (UAAL) in TRS Plan 1. OFM has proposed using these funds elsewhere. (It does not seem coincidental that a number of agency requests are asking for $800M. Hmmm!)

    The current rate/surcharge employers are paying to lower the UAAL will be decreased over time because of an assumed greater investment return than estimated by the State Actuary. WSSRA (School Retirees’ Assn.) is opposed to this move because of the uncertain investment environment we are in and in which the state is projected to remain in the near future. However, ‘in exchange’ for this proposal, HB 1459 would establish a capped permanent COLA for Plan 1 members. So, it’s a mixed bag. These older retirees deserve a COLA just like the other 12 retirement plans in the state, but exposing their plans to potentially increasing their unfunded liability is a problem. There is division within the Democrat caucus over this same issue. Attempts are being made to decrease the surcharge over time rather than the proposed elimination of the surcharge.

    At this point, all the bills are in limbo with no planned further actions to date.

    HB 1007: Concerning interruptive military service credit for members of the state retirement systems.

    Comment: Retirement credit can be awarded in any armed conflicts if the participant was awarded the respective campaign or expeditionary badge or medal…. the ‘expeditionary badge' qualifier was added.

    HB 1007 passed the House 97/0 and has moved to the Senate Ways and Means.

    HB 1008Concerning participating in insurance plans and contracts by separated Plan 2 members of certain retirement systems.

    Comment: This bill would simply make retiree insurance provisions uniform and equitable for Plan 2 and 3 members.

    HB 1008 passed the House 93/0 and has been moved to Senate Ways and Means.

    SHB 1056/ SB 5349: Repealing some post-retirement employment restrictions.

    Comment:Beginning January 1, 2024, any current or future retiree under the provisions of early retirement may utilize the 32 postretirement employment provisions of RCW 41.32.802(2) for up to 867 hours per year.

    SHB 1056 passed the House 93/0 and has moved to Senate Ways and Means. SB 5349 was passed out of Executive Session.

    SSB 5121Extending the expiration date of the joint select committee on health care oversight.

    Comment: The expiration date of this committee is to be extended. Its goal must be to ensure that these multiple health and insurance regulatory agencies are not duplicating their efforts and are working toward a goal of increased quality of services leading to reduced costs to the health care consumer.

    Passed Senate 48/0 and has moved to the House Health Care and Wellness Committee.


    Other Areas of Potential Fiscal Impact (and often unfunded) to Districts

    SHB 1068Concerning injured workers' rights during compelled medical examinations.

    Comment: This allows an injured worker to make an audio and video recording of a compelled medical examination and to have one person of the worker's choosing present during the examination. 

    This bill has been moved to House Rules.

    SHB 1105:  Requiring public agencies to provide notice for public comment that includes the last date by which such public comment must be submitted.

    Comment: Mandates a public agency that is required to solicit public comment for a statutorily specified period of time, and to provide notice that it is soliciting public comment, to include in the notice the last day by which written public comment may be submitted. Makes an agency that violates the requirement to include in a notice for public comment the last day by which written comment may be submitted subject to a civil penalty of $500 for the first violation and $1000 for any subsequent violation.

    This has been moved to Rules Committee.

    SHB 1106Concerning qualifications for unemployment insurance when an individual voluntarily leaves work.

    Comment: Expands access to unemployment insurance benefits by adding circumstances where a person may voluntarily quit for good cause.

    This bill has been referred to House Rules Committee.

    HB 1136: Requiring employers to reimburse employees for necessary expenditures and losses.

    Comment: An employer shall reimburse an employee for all necessary expenditures and losses incurred by the employee in direct consequence of the discharge of the employee's duties. Reimbursement must be paid within 30 days of the employer's actual or constructive notice of the expenditure or loss.

    This bill has been moved to House Rules.

    HB 1187: Concerning privileged communication between employees and the unions that represent them.

    Comment: To effectuate the public policy favoring effective collective bargaining, it is necessary to protect confidential union–employee communications in the course of union representation against disclosure.

    Scheduled for Executive Session on 2/10 before House Labor Committee.

    HB 1200: Requiring public employers to provide employee information to exclusive bargaining representatives.

    Comment: Requires certain public employers to provide exclusive bargaining representatives' information, such as contact information, date of hire, salary, and job site location of employees in bargaining units if the employer has that information in its records. Allows an exclusive bargaining representative to bring a court action if a public employer fails to comply with the requirement to provide information.

    HB 1200 has been moved to House Rules.

     EHB 1210 Concerning the recording of school board meetings.

    Comment: Specifies that a public records request for recordings of school district board of directors meetings must include the date of the meetings requested or a range of dates. Provides that searches for public records need not include recordings of school district board meetings unless a date is given. Requires all school district board meetings to be audio recorded, subject to exceptions for executive sessions and emergencies, with recordings kept for at least one year. Encourages school districts to make the content of school board of directors meetings available in formats accessible to individuals who need communication assistance and in languages other than English.

    This bill passed House 96/1 and has been moved to the Senate State Government Committee.

    HB 1248: Concerning pupil transportation.

    Comment: One important part of the proposal is that it requires that school district contracts for pupil transportation services must include sufficient funds to provide employees of the contracting employer with health benefits and pension contributions equivalent to those of school district classified employees.

    This bill had a public hearing on 1/23 and is scheduled for Executive Session on 2/13.

    HB 1785: Establishing COVID-19 as an occupational disease.

    Comment: The legislature finds that it is an important and essential protection for workers who contracted COVID-19 during the COVID-19 pandemic, to be fully protected and covered under our workers' compensation system.

    A public hearing is scheduled for 2/17 before House Labor Committee.

    SB 5059:  Concerning prejudgment interest.

    Comment: This was proposed last session. Briefly stated, judgments founded on the tortious conduct of a "public agency" shall bear interest from the date (of entry) the cause of action accrued. So if a district is found liable for neglecting to act in a child’s best interest, years after the fact, it will pay a penalty and interest from the day the neglect/damage first occurred, from the date the action is commenced, or the date the minor attains the age of eighteen years, whichever is earlier.

    A public hearing was held 2/7 before Senate Ways and Means. No further action has yet been scheduled.

    SB 5061/HB 1320: Concerning access to personnel records.

    Comment: Requires an employer to furnish an employee with a complete, unredacted copy of their personnel file at no cost within 14 calendar days of a request. • Mandates an employer to furnish a former employee with a signed written statement with the effective date of discharge, whether the employer had a reason for the discharge, and if so, the reasons, within 14 calendar days of the written request. • Allows an employee or former employee to bring a private action for violations of certain rights regarding personnel files, discharge information, and redaction logs, and entitles the employee to equitable relief, graduated statutory damages up to $1,000, and reasonable attorneys' fees and costs of each violation.

    SB 5061eferred to Ways and Means on 2/8. HB 1320 scheduled for Executive Session 2/15 before House Labor.

    SB 5084/HB 1558: Creating a separate fund for the purposes of self-insured pensions and assessments.

    Comment: Creates a self-insurance reserve fund for payments from self-insured employers related to workers' compensation pensions and from the overpayments reimbursement fund.

    SB 5084 passed Executive Session 2/7 before the Senate Ways and Means Committee. HB 1558 is scheduled for Executive Session 2/14 before House Labor.  

    SB 5123: Concerning the employment of individuals who lawfully consume cannabis.

    Comment: Prohibits employers, with some exceptions, from discriminating against a person in hiring if the discrimination is based on the person's use of cannabis outside of work or on certain employer-required drug screening tests.

    Passed to Rules Committee.

    SB 5174: Providing adequate and predictable student transportation.

    Comment: Of concern is the provision that provides that pupil transportation services contracts entered into, renewed, or extended after September 1, 2023, must require the contractor to provide employee health and retirement benefits comparable to those received by school employees.

    Scheduled for public hearing 2/2 before Senate Ways and Means Committee.

    SB 5240/ HB 1656: Concerning unemployment insurance benefits appeal procedures.

    Comment: A dispute of an individual's initial determination, determination of allowance or denial of allowance of benefits, or redetermination of allowance or denial of benefits, all matters covered by such initial determination, determination, or redetermination shall be deemed to be in issue subject to appeal.

    SB 5240 has been sent to Senate Rules Committee. HB 1656 is scheduled for Executive Session 2/14 before House Labor.

    SB 5275: Expanding access to benefits provided by the school employees' benefits board.

    Comment: Allows tribal compact schools, employee organizations representing school employees, and school board directors the option of providing health care through the School Employees' Benefits Board.

    Passed Executive Session 2/7 before Senate Ways and Means.

    SB 5286: Modifying the premium provisions of the Paid Family and Medical Leave program.

    Comment: Amends the premium rate calculation in the Paid Family and Medical Leave program (PFML) to be based on a specified formula rather than the Family and Medical Leave Insurance Account (Account) balance ratio on September 30th of the previous year. Sets a maximum rate of 1.2 percent and removes the Employment Security Department's authority to assess a solvency surcharge if the Account balance ratio falls below a certain threshold.

    Passed Senate 48/0 and moved to House with public hearing 2/3.

    Fred Yancey
    The Nexus Group LLC

  • Nomination Today! Principal and Assistant Principal of the Year Nominations are Open!

    by Julie Woods | Feb 07, 2023

     

    principal and assistant principal of the year in text with cartoon trophies

    February is AWSP Member Engagement Month! Each week this month, we're highlighting opportunities for members like you to get more involved with your professional association. This week we want to call special attention to our Principal and Assistant Principal of the Year Award program.

    In the middle of some of the most challenging times in the principalship, we at AWSP will take any opportunity to celebrate our rockstar leaders. Our Washington State Principal and Assistant Principal of the Year program is one way we do this.

    In early January, we announced our 2023 winners:
    • Dr. Dana Stiner (Pine Tree Elementary, Kent School District), Washington State Elementary Principal of the Year 

    • Deborah Henderson (Frank Wagner Elementary, Monroe School District), Washington State Elementary Assistant Principal of the Year

    • Shannon Leatherwood (Spanaway Middle School, Bethel School District), Washington State Secondary Principal of the Year 

    • Jessica Buchan (Renton High School, Renton School District), Washington State Secondary Assistant Principal of the Year

    You can read about them and their ability to create safe and inclusive climates and cultures for their students, staff, and community on our POY and APOY pages. Currently, they are working on their applications for the national recognition programs. We are so proud to have them represent Washington at national events/conferences later this year.

    Winning the state award results in more than just recognizing and celebrating excellent leadership. Our 2020 Secondary Principal of the year, David Cooke, said he appreciates the time his superintendent, Dr. Mary Templeton, and the Washougal School District team took to nominate him and allow him “this incredible opportunity.” Read about his experience at the NASSP Recognition Conference and his reasons why you should nominate a great leader today in David Cooke’s May 2020 Blog Post.

    Nick Davies, Ph.D., Associate Principal at Eisenhower/Lake Shore Elementary in Vancouver, wrote an article for our Washington Principal magazine that reflects on the last 20 years of Principal and AP of the Year winners. Nick writes, “I have always been interested in looking at people who reach the pinnacle of their professions. With education, we do not necessarily have a pinnacle, but receiving a teacher or principal of the year award is pretty close." 

    Here are some common traits Nick identifies from past winners:
    • leads by example
    • walks the walk
    • intense work ethic
    • Innovative
    • Inspiring
    • follows through
    • passionate
    • highly organized
    • great motivator
    • respected
    • high integrity
    • someone who everyone can count on

    Do you know a principal or assistant principal with some of these award-winning characteristics making an impact in their school and community who deserves to be recognized? Of course, you do! We know you’re all busy, so we have simplified the nomination process. There’s only one main question to answer and ANYONE can nominate - supervisor, assistant, parent, teacher, student, community member… Nominate now, and help us find our next group of leaders to celebrate.

  • Legislative Update | Jan 30 - Feb 3, 2023

    by David Morrill | Feb 05, 2023


    legislative update header graphic

    February is Here!

    As the calendar flipped to February this week and I realized it was the 25th day of this year’s legislative session, I felt a little relief. January was a blur as hundreds of education bills were introduced, and keeping track of those and all of the associated conversations about them takes a lot of mental energy. The first cut-off date of the year is fast approaching. February 17 is when bills must be passed out of their policy committees. The fast pace of keeping up with committee hearings continues for just two more weeks.

    This week started off with a bang as we had about 20 principals come to Olympia on Monday to meet with legislators and attend the House and Senate Education Committee hearings. We also hosted a few legislators at our first-ever advocacy reception that evening. Many thanks to those who came to advocate and to those who met virtually with their legislators throughout the week.

    Principal Bills

    SB 5085 is on the Senate Floor Calendar, which means it could be voted on by the whole Senate soon. After conversations with our AWSP Board and with our partners at WASA, we requested an amendment to remove section (2) of the bill related to bargaining working conditions. WASA has agreed to pull a workgroup together as soon as possible to identify tangible solutions that will attract, retain, and sustain our school leaders. We discussed at length the need for (1) immediate steps/actions to better support school leaders, and (2) to backward map next year’s legislative session collaboratively and intentionally.

    SB 5175 related to multi-year contracts for principals is in the Senate Rules Committee.

    Budget

    As you can see on my bill tracking list linked at the end of this blog, there is no shortage of bills related to the operating and capital budgets. This week, my focus has been on communications with legislators about our requests for increased funding for the principal internship and mentorship programs. Our request is for about $4 million each year (the funding for these two programs before receiving some ESSER funds to enhance them is about $750,000). Support for these two programs is critical to the success of our future building leaders.

    The main push by education leaders and advocates in our state is additional special education funding. Our local districts are paying around $400 million each school year from local levy funds to cover these costs. The state needs to do more. Read this recent letter from eight statewide associations (including the PTA, WEA, WASA, WSSDA, OSPI, and AWSP) about our common budget requests.

    Policy Bills

    Bills are starting to move out of committees, many with amendments. Here are a few that I’ve been paying attention to.

    SB 5257, the “Recess Bill,” was amended to require 30 minutes of recess (instead of 45 minutes).

    HB 1749, Restraint and Isolation, had a hearing this week in House Education. I sent in several specific questions and comments that I received from our members across the state. The House Education Committee is committed to working on this bill to ensure the language is clear. The Senate version of this bill (SB 5559) will be heard on Monday, February 6.

    HB 1550, Transitional Kindergarten (TK), had a lengthy hearing in the House Education Committee this week, and there is great concern from districts about this bill. The data clearly shows students in TK programs have performed well in kindergarten. Districts want to continue these programs. The Department of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF) and OSPI are continuing to meet together and with legislators to iron out details related to funding and formalizing these programs.

    Next week, the House Education Committee will start moving out of committee dual credit-related bills. They will also hear bills related to teacher residency programs and adding a performance pathway for graduation as an option for districts. The Senate Early Learning and K–12 Education Committee spent time discussing a 185-day school year this week, and they will take action soon on their bill about High School and Beyond Plans.

    Learn More or Get Involved

    Check out my complete bill tracking document for the full list of bills being heard this week.

    Our advocacy efforts need all of our voices to contribute to the process. There are many different ways (big and small) that you can get involved in these efforts. Your participation can be as easy as doing an action alert to email your legislators or signing in support of a specific bill. Or, if you feel passionate about a specific bill, we would love to have you testify. It takes all of us to make an impact!

    If you have questions or comments or want to get involved, please reach out to me.

  • Retirement & Health Benefits for February 3, 2023

    by David Morrill | Feb 03, 2023


    Retirement Blog

    “The truth is, time marches on and you have two choices: you move forward, come what may, and you experience all the sour and sweet things that fly at you from around corners, or you sit still. Don't sit still.”  ~ Suzanne Palmieri

    A reminder that the 17th of February is the first cut-off when policy bills have to make it out of their respective committees. Fiscal bills have until the 24th. So, the clock is running and selected bills are moving.

    Listed below are bills that show some life.

    Retirement Related Proposals

    HB 1007/SB 5296: Concerning interruptive military service credit for members of the state retirement systems.

    Comment: Retirement credit can be awarded in any armed conflicts if the participant was awarded the respective campaign or expeditionary badge or medal...the ‘expeditionary badge qualifier' was added.

    HB 1007 passed the House 97/0 and has moved to the Senate. SB 5296 is scheduled for Executive Session on 2/7.  

    HB 1008Concerning participating in insurance plans and contracts by separated Plan 2 members of certain retirement systems.

    Comment: This bill would simply make retiree insurance provisions uniform and equitable for Plan 2 and 3 members.

    HB 1008 has been moved to Rules Committee.

    HB 1056/ SB 5349: Repealing some post-retirement employment restrictions.

    Comment: Beginning January 1, 2024, any current or future retiree under the provisions of early retirement may utilize the 32 post-retirement employment provisions of RCW 41.32.802(2) for up to 867 hours per year. This includes administrators. DRS wanted this in order to simplify the current system, particularly when it came to using retired contract services.

    The substitute bill summary states, “The restrictions on receiving benefits during postretirement employment for PERS, TRS, and SERS Plans 2 and 3 retirees that retired under the 2008 ERF are lifted to allow receipt of pension payments during employment of up to 867 hours per year of employment with a retirement system employer. Benefits for retired members that choose the 3 percent ERF are adjusted to the reductions in the 2008 ERF for purposes of benefit payments made after the effective date of the act.”

    SHB 1056 has been moved to Rules Committee. SB 5349 has been moved to Executive Session 2/7.

    HB 1057/SB 5350: Providing a benefit increase to certain retirees of the public employees' retirement system Plan 1 and the teachers' retirement system Plan 1.

    Comment: This bill would provide a 3% increase not to exceed $110/month for TRS1/PERS1 Plan retirees. The Governor included this one-time increase in his released supplemental budget. Same COLA as granted last session. However, there is an addition: During the 2023-2025 fiscal biennium, the SCPP will study and recommend a permanent ongoing cost-of-living adjustment for beneficiaries of the public employees' retirement system Plan 1 and the teachers' retirement 2 system Plan 1.

    Scheduled for public hearing 1/26 before House Appropriations Committee and a public hearing 1/23 before Senate Ways and Means. Both bills are likely NTIB (Necessary to Implement the Budget so remain alive.)

    SB 5121: Extending the expiration date of the joint select committee on health care oversight.

    Comment: The expiration date of this committee is to be extended. Its goal must be to ensure that these multiple health and insurance regulatory agencies are not duplicating their efforts and are working toward a goal of increased quality of services leading to reduced costs to the health care consumer.

    Passed Senate 48/0 and has moved to the House.

    HB 1201/SB 5294: Concerning actuarial funding of state retirement systems.

    Comment: This bill deals with eliminating the unfunded liability (UAAL) of TRS/PERS Plans 1. The intent is that by so doing, the employer surcharge currently being paid to decrease the UAAL will be reduced to a zero (0%) added charge: PERS on 6/30/25; SERS on 8/31/25 and TRS on 8/31/24. This will save the state in excess of $4B and school districts whose staffing exceeds state reimbursement will also save dollars. Cities and counties will also save money. This bill also repeals the commitment made last session to pay $800M toward eliminating the TRS 1 unfunded liability, assuming investment returns will make up the difference.

    HB 1201 is scheduled for Executive Session on 2/2 before House Appropriations but was not acted upon. A key legislator has indicated that HB 1201 and HB 1459 are a "package deal". Both must pass. The reason being that if HB 1201 is done, then there is an opportunity to restore a permanent COLA for Plan 1 members. SB 5294 had a public hearing 1/23. Both bills are likely NTIB so will remain alive but the ‘package’ appears to be in trouble. Democrat legislators are divided on supporting these bills, so they are likely to not succeed.

    HB 1459: Providing an annual adjustment in the Public Employees' Retirement System and Teachers' Retirement System Plan 1 benefits capped at $110 per month by adjusting the long-term investment rate of return assumption.

    Comment: This is basically a capped permanent COLA proposal.

    This is scheduled for Executive Session on 2/2 before House Appropriations but like HB 1201 was not acted upon. See remarks above under HB 1201 regarding linkage of passage of this with HB 1201 and divided support among Democrats.

    HB 5490 Concerning health care coverage for retired or disabled employees denied coverage for failure to timely notify the authority of their intent to defer coverage.

    Comment: This bill came to Sen. Rolfes from an agitated constituent who missed the deadline to continue membership in PEBB post-retirement. This bill allows a "second bite at the apple" if certain conditions and timelines are met.

    Scheduled for public hearing 2/7 before Senate Ways and Means.


    Other Areas of Potential Fiscal Impact (and often unfunded) to Districts

    HB 1068: Concerning injured workers' rights during compelled medical examinations.

    Comment: This allows an injured worker to make an audio and video recording of a compelled medical examination and to have one person of the worker's choosing present during the examination. 

    This bill has been moved to House Rules.

    SHB 1105:  Requiring public agencies to provide notice for public comment that includes the last date by which such public comment must be submitted.

    Comment: Mandates a public agency that is required to solicit public comment for a statutorily specified period of time, and to provide notice that it is soliciting public comment, to include in the notice the last day by which written public comment may be submitted. Makes an agency that violates the requirement to include in a notice for public comment the last day by which written comment may be submitted subject to a civil penalty of $500 for the first violation and $1000 for any subsequent violation.

    Passed State Government Committee 1/31.

    SHB 1106Concerning qualifications for unemployment insurance when an individual voluntarily leaves work.

    Comment: Expands access to unemployment insurance benefits by adding circumstances where a person may voluntarily quit for good cause.

    This bill has been referred to House Rules Committee.

    HB 1136: Requiring employers to reimburse employees for necessary expenditures and losses.

    Comment: An employer shall reimburse an employee for all necessary expenditures and losses incurred by the employee in direct consequence of the discharge of the employee's duties. Reimbursement must be paid within 30 days of the employer's actual or constructive notice of the expenditure or loss.

    This bill is scheduled for Executive Session on 2/3.

    HB 1187: Concerning privileged communication between employees and the unions that represent them.

    Comment: To effectuate the public policy favoring effective collective bargaining, it is necessary to protect confidential union–employee communications in the course of union representation against disclosure.

    Scheduled for Executive Session on 2/3 before House Labor Committee.

    HB 1200: Requiring public employers to provide employee information to exclusive bargaining representatives.

    Comment: Requires certain public employers to provide exclusive bargaining representatives' information, such as contact information, date of hire, salary, and job site location of employees in bargaining units if the employer has that information in its records. Allows an exclusive bargaining representative to bring a court action if a public employer fails to comply with the requirement to provide information.

    HB 1200 has been moved to House Rules.

     EHB 1210 Concerning the recording of school board meetings.

    Comment: Specifies that a public records request for recordings of school district board of directors meetings must include the date of the meetings requested or a range of dates. Provides that searches for public records need not include recordings of school district board meetings unless a date is given. Requires all school district board meetings to be audio recorded, subject to exceptions for executive sessions and emergencies, with recordings kept for at least one year. Encourages school districts to make the content of school board of directors meetings available in formats accessible to individuals who need communication assistance and in languages other than English.

    This bill passed House 96/1 and has been moved to the Senate.

    HB 1248: Concerning pupil transportation.

    Comment: One important part of the proposal is that it requires that school district contracts for pupil transportation services must include sufficient funds to provide employees of the contracting employer with health benefits and pension contributions equivalent to those of school district classified employees.

    This bill had a public hearing on 1/23 and has not been scheduled for further action but is likely NTIB.

    SB 5059:  Concerning prejudgment interest.

    Comment: This was proposed last session. Briefly stated, judgments founded on the tortious conduct of a "public agency" shall bear interest from the date (of entry) the cause of action accrued. So if a district is found liable for neglecting to act in a child’s best interest, years after the fact, it will pay a penalty and interest from the day the neglect/damage first occurred, from the date the action is commenced, or the date the minor attains the age of eighteen years, whichever is earlier.

    Scheduled for a public hearing 2/7 before Senate Ways and Means.

    SB 5084/HB 1558: Creating a separate fund for the purposes of self-insured pensions and assessments.

    Comment: Creates a self-insurance reserve fund for payments from self-insured employers related to workers' compensation pensions and from the overpayments reimbursement fund.

    SB 5084 is scheduled for Executive Session 2/7 before the Senate Ways and Means Committee. HB 1558 is scheduled for public hearing 2/7 before House Labor.  

    SB 5123: Concerning the employment of individuals who lawfully consume cannabis.

    Comment: Prohibits employers, with some exceptions, from discriminating against a person in hiring if the discrimination is based on the person's use of cannabis outside of work or on certain employer-required drug screening tests.

    Passed to Rules Committee.

    SB 5174: Providing adequate and predictable student transportation.

    Comment: Of concern is the provision that provides that pupil transportation services contracts entered into, renewed, or extended after September 1, 2023, must require the contractor to provide employee health and retirement benefits comparable to those received by school employees.

    Scheduled for public hearing 2/2 before Senate Ways and Means Committee.

    SB 5237: Establishing complaint procedures to address noncompliance with certain state education laws.

    Comment: This is an act relating to establishing complaint procedures to address noncompliance with certain state education laws. Complaints are to be filed and investigated by OSPI. The PESB may hold the Superintendent responsible and act accordingly. School directors can also be removed from office.

    Referred to Ways and Means 1/27.

    SB 5240/ HB 1656: Concerning unemployment insurance benefits appeal procedures.

    Comment: A dispute of an individual's initial determination, determination of allowance or denial of allowance of benefits, or redetermination of allowance or denial of benefits, all matters covered by such initial determination, determination, or redetermination shall be deemed to be in issue subject to appeal.

    Has been sent to Senate Rules Committee. HB 1656 has a public hearing 2/8 before House Labor.

    SB 5275: Expanding access to benefits provided by the school employees' benefits board.

    Comment: Allows tribal compact schools, employee organizations representing school employees, and school board directors the option of providing health care through the School Employees' Benefits Board.

    Scheduled for Executive Session 2/7 before Senate Ways and Means.

    SB 5286: Modifying the premium provisions of the Paid Family and Medical Leave program.

    Comment: Amends the premium rate calculation in the Paid Family and Medical Leave program (PFML) to be based on a specified formula rather than the Family and Medical Leave Insurance Account (Account) balance ratio on September 30th of the previous year. Sets a maximum rate of 1.2 percent and removes the Employment Security Department's authority to assess a solvency surcharge if the Account balance ratio falls below a certain threshold.

    Passed Senate 48/0 and moved to House.

    SB 5505: Addressing learning loss by expanding the school year.

    Comment: This bill would increase the number of instructional hours for grades K-12.

    Scheduled for a Public Hearing on 2/2 before the Senate Education Committee.

    Fred Yancey
    The Nexus Group LLC

  • Special Education and 504 Tips & Resources | February 3, 2023

    by David Morrill | Feb 03, 2023

     

    image of inclusion cutout people

    The content from this post comes from Dr. Whitehead's weekly email.


    These emails are sent out weekly to leaders in special education and Section 504. Each email contains tips and resources on a variety of topics that are meant to keep you informed and up to date. Please consult your district attorney if you are looking for legal advice, as this is out of my realm. The opinions contained herein are my own.

    Please feel free to reach out if you have ideas on topics and resources. This week’s emails include links to information on: 

    Everyone:
    Tip for Responding to Community Complaints

    504:
    Tracking 504 accommodations

    Special Education & 504 Case Law:
    Section 504 and ADA — February Edition

    Special Education:
    Discipline and Behavior Series
    Legislative Tracker Link

    • Yellow — OSPI requested
    • Purple — Sped 

    OSPI:
    January Updates


    Upcoming Classes and Events:

  • Education Leaders Call for Investments in Special Education, Meals, Transportation, and School Staff

    by David Morrill | Feb 02, 2023
     

    illustrations of a book, graduation hat, and a coin being dropped into a piggy bank

    The leaders of Washington’s statewide organizations representing parents and families, teachers, principals, classified school employees, superintendents, school board members, and our state superintendent have four top priorities for supporting Washington’s students this legislative session. Below is their joint statement.

    OLYMPIA — February 2, 2023 — As the leaders of Washington’s K–12 education organizations representing our public school students, educators, school staff, and families, we are deeply connected to the needs of our students and schools in every community across our state.

    We know our schools play an integral role in supporting their students’ learning and mental health recovery. Recovery in one community does not look identical to recovery in another community; however, there are some critical needs that are consistent across the state, and we are seeking action and investment by the Legislature this session to address them.

    Support for all four of these priorities will allow for local voter-approved levies to focus on the unique needs of their community instead of providing for services that are the state’s responsibility to fund.

    First, we are asking the Legislature to fully fund special education services for our students with disabilities.

    Public school districts have a moral and legal obligation to provide each of their students with access to a free and appropriate public education where they are supported to progress in grade-level learning standards. Through special education, schools provide students with disabilities with specially designed instruction that addresses the unique needs of eligible students at no cost to families.

    Though progress has been made, last school year, school districts across the state still spent $400 million in local funds to cover the gap in state funding that is necessary to support students with disabilities.

    We are also asking the Legislature to ensure each of Washington’s students has access to nutritious meals at school at no out-of-pocket costs to the student or their family.

    When students’ basic needs—like the need to eat—aren’t taken care of, their learning is impacted. Even when they are eligible for free and reduced-price meals, many students, especially in the older grades, do not participate due to stigma.

    Combining some incredible legislative investments last year with the federal meal supports, over 65% of our students have access to free school meals this year. We need the Legislature to finish the progress we’ve already made and ensure all of Washington’s students have access to nutritious, free meals as part of the school day.

    In addition, we are asking the Legislature to finally fix the outdated and broken funding model for student transportation. Like special education services, many districts are still using local voter-approved levies to fund transportation even though it is a basic education function that should be fully funded by the state. Student safety is the number one priority for our schools and that should not be a function of the wealth of the community.

    Finally, we are asking the Legislature to support our students by ensuring school districts have the resources to recruit and retain highly effective educators and staff.

    Our state has made important progress in school employee salaries, but the current funding formula often does not fund school districts equitably. The Legislature can support our school employees and prevent turnover of talented staff by

    1. Equitably funding neighboring school districts in a region;
    2. Ensuring that the full impacts of inflation are addressed in employee compensation, especially for our lowest paid employees who are most impacted by rising costs of living; and
    3. Providing additional staffing supports that focus on student mental health, family engagement, and learning acceleration.

    Our schools put their students’ needs at the center of all their decision-making. As the Legislature contemplates policy changes and additional investments, we ask them to follow the lead of the educators in their communities by also centering their work on student success and well-being. 

    Written by:

    • Andrew Estep, Executive Director, Washington State PTA
    • Charlotte Shindler, President, Public School Employees of Washington
    • Chris Reykdal, State Superintendent of Public Instruction
    • Jessica Vavrus, Executive Director, Washington Association of Educational Service Districts
    • Joel Aune, Executive Director, Washington Association of School Administrators
    • Larry Delaney, President, Washington Education Association
    • Scott Seaman, Executive Director, Association of Washington School Principals
    • Tim Garchow, Executive Director, Washington State School Directors’ Association
  • Legislative Update | January 23-27, 2023

    by David Morrill | Jan 30, 2023


    legislative update header graphic

    AWSP Day and Week on the Hill Start Today!

    About 25 of our amazing principals and assistant principals will join us in Olympia on Monday, January 30, to meet with legislators at the Capitol and to attend a legislative reception in the evening. Our goal is to continue conversations about what our principals and assistant principals need to effectively lead their schools and how the Legislature can help continue supporting students and staff.

    Principal Bills Keep Moving

    In this fourth week of a fifteen-week session, our two bills related to principal and assistant principal employment keep moving. SB 5085 would provide a variety of updates to different RCWs to better support principals. This bill would open up the bargaining process to include “working conditions,” provide additional security for assistant principals, ensure that total years worked as a teacher and administrator count toward years of experience in education, and require evaluators to receive training in evaluation procedures. SB 5175 would allow (but not require) districts to offer principals up to three-year contracts. 

    Other Bills This Week

    Two important bills are being heard in the House Education Committee this week. One is HB 1479, related to restraint and isolation. OSPI requested this bill, which matches the recommendations made by a workgroup and their recently released report on these issues. The bill would prohibit students from being subjected to isolation, mechanical restraint, or chemical restraint by school staff, except for SROs under some circumstances. It would also specify that existing isolation rooms must remain unlocked, no new isolation rooms may be created, and, by January 1, 2024, isolation rooms must be removed or repurposed. School districts would also need to provide training to support the elimination of isolation and chemical restraint and to reduce the use of restraint in schools. This bill will be heard on Monday, January 30.

    This week’s other big bill is HB 1550, related to Transitional Kindergarten. This bill’s intent is to establish a “transition to Kindergarten” program that basic education funds do not fund. OSPI and the Department of Children, Youth, and Families would need to work together to administer this program. Many districts are concerned by this proposed bill.  They will share their overarching message that they are trying to serve students and families with more early learning support, that access to early learning programs makes a positive difference entering Kindergarten, and that there needs to be local flexibility for both parents and communities. This bill is being heard Tuesday, January 31.

    For the full list of bills being heard this week, check out my complete bill tracking document

    Our advocacy efforts need all of our voices to contribute to the process. There are many different ways (big and small) that you can get involved in these efforts. Your participation can be as easy as doing an action alert to email your legislators or signing in support of a specific bill. Or, if you feel really passionate about a specific bill, we would love to have you testify. It takes all of us to make an impact!

    If you have questions or comments or want to get involved, please reach out to me.

  • Retirement & Health Benefits for January 27, 2023

    by David Morrill | Jan 27, 2023


    Retirement Blog

    “And the band plays on…as the beat slowly increases...”

    There’s a certain rhythm to the Legislature as the session continues.  The action begins to move from the public hearings to executive ones, to rules and dribbling onto the floor for action. The 17th of February is the first cut-off, and in all likelihood, the 6th is a closer measure of when new bills will cease being introduced. (It takes time to schedule, hear, etc. in order to meet the February deadline)

    Previous reports have covered other bills that have been introduced but as yet, show no further movement.

    Retirement Related Proposals

    HB 1007/SB 5296: Concerning interruptive military service credit for members of the state retirement systems.

    Comment: Retirement credit can be awarded if in any armed conflicts if the participant was awarded the respective campaign or expeditionary badge or medal…the ‘expeditionary badge qualifier was added.

    HB 1007 has been moved to Rules Committee.

    HB 1008/SB 5420: Concerning participating in insurance plans and contracts by separated Plan 2 members of certain retirement systems.

    Comment: This bill would simply make retiree insurance provisions uniform and equitable for Plan 2 and 3 members.

    HB 1008 has been moved to Rules Committee.

    HB 1056/ SB 5349: Repealing some postretirement employment restrictions.

    Comment: Beginning January 1, 2024, any current or future retiree under the provisions of early retirement may utilize the 32 postretirement employment provisions of RCW 41.32.802(2) for up to 867 hours per year. This includes administrators. DRS wanted this in order to simplify the current system, particularly when it came to using retired contract services.

    The substitute bill summary states: “ The restrictions on receiving benefits during postretirement employment for PERS, TRS, and SERS Plans 2 and 3 retirees that retired under the 2008 ERF are lifted to allow receipt of pension payments during employment of up to 867 hours per year of employment with a retirement system employer. Benefits for retired members that choose the 3 percent ERF are adjusted to the reductions in the 2008 ERF for purposes of benefit payments made after the effective date of the act.”

    SHB 1056 has been moved to Rules Committee.

    **HB 1057/SB 5350: Providing a benefit increase to certain retirees of the public employees' retirement system plan 1 and the teachers' retirement system Plan 1.

    Comment: This bill would provide a 3% increase not to exceed $110/month for TRS1/PERS1 Plan retirees. The Governor included this one-time increase in his released supplemental budget. Same COLA as granted last session. However, there is an addition: During the 2023-2025 fiscal biennium, the SCPP will study and recommend a permanent ongoing cost-of-living adjustment for beneficiaries of the public employees' retirement system Plan 1 and the teachers' retirement 2 system Plan 1.

    Scheduled for public hearing 1/26 before House Appropriations Committee.

    SB 5121: Extending the expiration date of the joint select committee on health care oversight.

    Comment: The expiration date of this committee is to be extended. Its goal must be to ensure that these multiple health and insurance regulatory agencies are not duplicating their efforts and are working toward a goal of increased quality of services leading to reduced costs to the health care consumer.

    This bill is on the Senate floor calendar for action.

    **HB 1201/SB 5294: Concerning actuarial funding of state retirement systems.

    Comment: This bill deals with eliminating the unfunded liability (UAAL) of TRS/PERS Plans 1. The intent is that by so doing, the employer surcharge currently being paid to decrease the UAAL, will be reduced to a zero (0%) added charge: PERS on 6/30/25; SERS on 8/31/25 and TRS on 8/31/24. This will save the state in excess of $4B and school districts whose staffing exceeds state reimbursement will also save dollars. Cities and counties will also save money. This bill also repeals the commitment made last session to pay $800 M toward eliminating the TRS 1 unfunded liability, assuming investment returns will make up the difference.

    HB 1201 is scheduled for Executive Session on 2/2 before House Appropriations. A key legislator has indicated that HB 1201 and HB 1459 are a ‘package deal’. Both must pass. The reason being that if HB 1201 is done, then there is an opportunity to restore a permanent COLA for Plans 1 members.

    **HB 1459: Providing an annual adjustment in the public employees' retirement system and teachers' retirement system plan 1 benefits capped at $110 per month by adjusting the long-term investment rate of return assumption.

    Comment: This is basically a capped permanent COLA proposal.

    This is scheduled for Executive Session on 2/2 before House Appropriations. See remarks above under HB 1201 regarding linkage of passage of this with HB 1201.

    SB 5169: Concerning health care plans administered by the health care authority that are available to Medicare eligible retirees.

    Comment: The public employees' benefits board must allow Medicare-eligible retirees access to the uniform medical plan classic (UMP) Medicare. This is in reaction to an earlier attempt by the Health Care Authority to remove UMP as a future offering due solely to the huge cost increase and differential compared to the newly added PEBB Advantage (United Health Care) plans. The outrage among school retirees forced the agency to back off that attempt. This is designed to insure they don’t do it in the future.

    Scheduled for public hearing on 1/27 before Senate Health Care Committee.

    HB 5490Concerning health care coverage for retired or disabled employees denied coverage for failure to timely notify the authority of their intent to defer coverage.

    This bill came to Sen. Rolfes from an agitated constituent who missed the deadline to continue membership in PEBB post-retirement. This bill allows a ‘second bite at the apple’ if certain conditions and timelines are met.

    Committee passed by Executive Session.


    Other Areas of Potential Fiscal Impact and (often, unfunded) to Districts

    HB 1068: Concerning injured workers' rights during compelled medical examinations.

    Comment: This allows an injured worker to make an audio and video recording of a compelled medical examination, and to have one person of the worker's choosing present during the examination. 

    This bill has been moved to House Rules.

    HB 1099: Requiring certain wages in public works contracts to be at least the prevailing wage in effect when the work is performed.

    Comment: Requires public works contracts to specify that wages paid to workers will not be less than the latest prevailing wage rate in effect at the time the work is performed.

    This bill has been moved to House Capital Budget Committee for hearing.

    HB 1106: Concerning qualifications for unemployment insurance when an individual voluntarily leaves work.

    Comment: Expands access to unemployment insurance benefits by adding circumstances where a person may voluntarily quit for good cause.

    This bill has been referred to House Rules Committee.

    HB 1136: Requiring employers to reimburse employees for necessary expenditures and losses.

    Comment: An employer shall reimburse an employee for all necessary expenditures and losses incurred by the employee in direct consequence of the discharge of the employee's duties. Reimbursement must be paid within 30 days of the employer's actual or constructive notice of the expenditure or loss.

    This bill is scheduled for Executive Session on 1/27.

    HB 1187: Concerning privileged communication between employees and the unions that represent them.Comment: To effectuate the public policy favoring effective collective bargaining, it is necessary to protect confidential union–employee communications in the course of union representation against disclosure.

    Scheduled for Executive Session on 1/27 before House Labor Committee.

    HB 1200/SB 5273: Requiring public employers to provide employee information to exclusive bargaining representatives.

    Comment: Requires certain public employers to provide exclusive bargaining representatives' information, such as contact information, date of hire, salary, and job site location, of employees in bargaining units if the employer has that information in its records. • Allows an exclusive bargaining representative to bring a court action if a public employer fails to comply with the requirement to provide information.

    Scheduled for Executive Session on 1/27.

    HB 1246Concerning eligibility for health benefits from the school employees' benefits board for school employees.

    Comment: School employees anticipated to work less than 630 hours in any single school employees' benefits board organization may establish eligibility for benefits by working for more than one school employees' benefits board organization if the combined hours the school employee is anticipated to work is at least 630 hours per school year. Employer contributions for an employee eligible under this subsection (6)(d)(ii) shall be prorated across the employee's school employees' benefits board organizations based on data reported.

    Scheduled for a Public hearing on 1/26 and Executive Session 2/1 before House Appropriations Committee.

    HB 1248: Concerning pupil transportation.

    Comment: One important part of the proposal is that it requires that school district contracts for pupil transportation services must include sufficient funds to provide employees of the contracting employer with health benefits and pension contributions equivalent to those of school district classified employees.

    This bill had a public hearing on 1/23 and has not been scheduled for further action to date but it remains a bill to monitor.

    HB 1649: Concerning prejudgment interest.

    Comment: This appears to be a change from SB 5059. A section reads: “..Except as otherwise provided in (((a) of)) this subsection (3), judgments founded on the tortious conduct of individuals or  other entities that are not a "public agency" as defined in RCW 18 42.30.020, whether acting in their personal or representative capacities, shall bear interest from the date ((of entry)) the cause 20 of action accrued.”

     This proposal removes the calculation of interest from date the offense first occurred. This is a new bill introduced 1/27/23.

    SB 5059:  Concerning prejudgment interest.

    Comment: This was proposed last session. Briefly stated, judgments founded on the tortious conduct of a "public agency" shall bear interest from the date ((of entry)) the cause of action accrued. So if a district is found liable for neglecting to act in a child’s best interest, years after the fact, it will pay a penalty and interest from the day the neglect/damage first occurred. from the date the action is commenced or the date the minor attains the age of eighteen years, whichever is earlier.

    Passed Executive Session on 1/26 before Senate Law and Justice Committee.

    SB 5084: Creating a separate fund for the purposes of self-insured pensions and assessments.

    Comment: Creates a self-insurance reserve fund for payments from self-insured employers related to workers' compensation pensions and from the overpayments reimbursement fund.

    Scheduled for a public hearing 1/30 before the Senate Ways and Means Committee.  

    SB 5123: Concerning the employment of individuals who lawfully consume cannabis.

    Comment: Prohibits employers, with some exceptions, from discriminating against a person in hiring if the discrimination is based on the person's use of cannabis outside of work or on certain employer-required drug screening tests.

    Scheduled for Executive Session action on 1/31 before Senate Labor Committee.

    SB 5237: Establishing complaint procedures to address noncompliance with certain state education laws.

    Comment: This is an act relating to establishing complaint procedures to address noncompliance with certain state education laws. Complaints are to be filed and investigated by OSPI. The PESB may hold the Superintendent responsible and act accordingly. School directors can also be removed from office.

    Passed Executive Session 1/26 before Senate Education Committee.

    SB 5240: Concerning unemployment insurance benefits appeal procedures.

    Comment: A dispute of an individual's initial determination, determination of allowance or denial of allowance of benefits, or redetermination of allowance or denial of benefits, all matters covered by such initial determination, determination, or redetermination shall be deemed to be in issue subject to appeal.

    Has been sent to Senate Rules Committee.

    SB 5286: Modifying the premium provisions of the paid family and medical leave program.

    Comment: Amends the premium rate calculation in the Paid Family and Medical Leave Program (PFML) to be based on a specified formula rather than the Family and Medical Leave Insurance Account (Account) balance ratio on September 30th of the previous year. Sets a maximum rate of 1.2 percent and removes the Employment Security Department's authority to assess a solvency surcharge if the Account balance ratio falls below a certain threshold.

    Currently before Senate Rules Committee.

    SB 5327Concerning paying interns.

    Comment: Requires any state or local governmental body or agency, or educational, charitable, or nonprofit organization receiving public funds who provides an internship, to pay the intern at least the state minimum wage for the hours of the internship.

    Even though there has been no further movement since the Public Hearing on 1/23, this may be a sleeper bill that will continue life under the radar until it pops up again. The concern is that student teachers could fall under this qualification.

    SB 5505: Addressing learning loss by expanding the school year.

    Comment: This bill would increase the number of instructional hours for grades K-12. Scheduled for a Public Hearing on 2/2 before the Senate Education Committee.

    Fred Yancey
    The Nexus Group LLC

  • Special Education and 504 Tips & Resources | January 27, 2023

    by David Morrill | Jan 27, 2023

     

    image of inclusion cutout people

    The content from this post comes from Dr. Whitehead's weekly email.


    These emails are sent out weekly to leaders in special education and Section 504. Each email contains tips and resources on a variety of topics that are meant to keep you informed and up to date. Please consult your district attorney if you are looking for legal advice, as this is out of my realm. The opinions contained herein are my own.

    Please feel free to reach out if you have ideas on topics and resources. This week’s emails include links to information on: 

    Everyone:
    If you want to change the world, by Admiral McRaven — Motivational video, 20 minutes long but so worth it!

    504:
    Eligibility Determination for Section 504

    Special Education & 504 Case Law:
    Child Find & LRE — January Edition

    Special Education:
    Part C to B flow chart
    Legislative Tracker Link
    January Updates

    • Yellow — OSPI requested
    • Purple — Sped 

    OSPI:
    January Updates


    Upcoming Classes and Events:

  • School Celebration Newsletter | February 2023 Edition

    by David Morrill | Jan 23, 2023


    Celebrations


    February, The Month of Love

    There are so many great things about this special month that make it special. February is the month of love, a new grading term for some, my daughter’s birthday, and IT is finally starting to stay light a bit longer on my drive home. (YAHOO to all of them). February is a time for magical learning in the classroom when our students begin to hit their stride and “get it.” Our seniors are coming to the realization that graduation is around the corner. All of our hard work IS paying off, and we see the fruits of our labor. Each and every day, educators are making a difference in the lives of students, staff, and the community. Your never-ending belief in those you serve is a true game-changer. You are an inspiration. You will find this newsletter full of easy-to-use ideas to bring joy, laughter, and support to your team. February celebrations seem to all revolve around food, so you may want to purchase some Pepcid to keep on hand next time you are at the store. As always, feel free to reach out to me if I can support your work and to share your celebrations. You can always find me on Twitter or email. We are in this together, no matter the distance between our zip codes. Peace and Love, Cindy

    Screenshot 2023-01-04 at 11.04.48 AM


    February Days to Celebrate

    Feb 1 | National Dark Chocolate Day | With the grocery store aisles lined with candy this should be an easy one. Look for individual chocolates to share with your staff today.

    Feb 3 | National Carrot Cake Day | Instead of cake slices for everyone, look for carrot cake cupcakes. With February being such a sweet tooth of a month, the added veggies will help with a more balanced diet for everyone. And Feb 3 is also National Bubble Gum Day-Bubble blowing competition for staff. Another idea might be to have staff share their favorite flavor of gum and brainstorm with their students a recommended new flavor they wish existed. Prizes for the most creative and tasty of ideas.

    Feb 6 | National Chopsticks Day | “Chopping Through the School Year Together”.

    Feb 7 | National Send a Card to a Friend Day (and my daughter Kenzington’s Birthday) | Handwritten notes seem to have become a lost art. Take a couple of minutes today to encourage all staff to send a note of encouragement and appreciation to someone they care about. Provide staff with a notecard and a stamp for the finishing touch.

    Feb 8 | National Kite Flying Day | Where I live in the pacific northwest, we usually do not have kite-flying weather in February. However, I will be heading to the dollar tree to pick up a kite for each staff member. Add a note that says, “Our students soar like kites because you help them fly. Happy Kite Flying Day.”

    Feb 9 | National Pizza Day | Raffle ticket drawings throughout today for a gift certificate for a pizza dinner. Check with your neighborhood pizza parlor for a BIG discount.

    Feb 10 | National Umbrella Day | Here are a couple of ideas for this day: provide staff with root beer floats with little umbrellas in the drink or have umbrellas as door prizes for all of your recess duty and outside supervision staff. Have you seen the movie “Singing in the Rain”? Make it a day of trivia to celebrate this iconic movie.

    Feb 10 | Is also the Friday before the Super Bowl. Now that my Patriots and Seahawks have been eliminated, I will have more time for cooking for this occasion. Why not have a potluck with staff today full of favorite appetizers?

    Feb 14 | Valentine’s Day | Plan ahead if you are giving out staff Valentine’s Cards.

    Feb 16 | National Almond Day | Take advantage of the after-Valentine’s sales and pick up some almond candies to share.

    Feb 17 | Random Act of Kindness Day | This is one of my most favorite days as I wish this were celebrated every day. Challenge your students and staff to do a random act of kindness this week. Give all participants a post-it to write on about their act and cover a wall with these examples of kindness or create a kindness chain with their stories.

    Feb 21 | National Sticky Bun Day | Little Debbie will be your best friend today. Go to any grocery store and pick up a few of these cheap and unhealthy snacks to share.

    Feb 23 | National Chili Day | If you know me at all, you know I LOVE Seinfeld. My cats are even named George and Newman as a tribute to this great show. Fans of the show will understand this one — purchase several cans of chili. Have a drawing where staff pulls out a paper from a basket. Winning papers will say “soup for you,” and they win a can of chili OR draw a paper that says “NO SOUP FOR YOU,” which is a losing ticket.

    Feb 24 | “Skip the Straw Day” | Pass out recyclable or metal straws as gifts with a note, “You make such an impact on your students every day; may these reusable straws make a similar impact on our earth.” Or it is also National Tortilla Chip Day. It may not be Taco Tuesday, but this is a fabulous day to take around your treat cart with a variety of chips for staff to choose from for an afternoon snack.

    Feb 27 | “National Strawberry Day” | Strawberry soda floats, strawberry snacks, or strawberry seeds for staff to plant.


    Cindy is in her 23rd year as a school administrator. She is currently the principal of Kelso Virtual Academy and Loowit Alternative High School within the Kelso School District in Kelso, Washington. Cindy has been recognized by the National Association of Secondary School Principals as the 2021 National Digital Principal of the Year. She has two teenagers and has been married to her husband, Leszek for 23 years. Find her on Twitter @sholtys.

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