SB 6129-S - DIGEST
(DIGEST AS ENACTED)

Requires the professional educator standards board to convene a work group to design program-specific minimum employment standards for paraeducators, professional development and education opportunities that support the standards, a paraeducator career ladder, an articulated pathway for teacher preparation and certification, and teacher professional development on how to maximize the use of paraeducators in the classroom.

Authorizes the professional educator standards board and the state board for community and technical colleges to exercise their respective authorities regarding program approval to implement the articulated pathway for teacher preparation and certification in approved teacher certification programs and certificate and degree programs offered by community and technical colleges.

Requires community or technical colleges that offer an apprenticeship program or certificate program for paraeducators to provide candidates the opportunity to earn transferrable course credits within the program.

Makes an appropriation.

 
VETO MESSAGE ON SSB 6129

March 28, 2014

To the Honorable President and Members,
The Senate of the State of Washington

Ladies and Gentlemen:

I am returning herewith, without my approval as to Section 1, Substitute Senate Bill No. 6129 entitled:

"AN ACT Relating to paraeducator development."


This legislation directs the Professional Educator Standards Board to convene a workgroup to design minimum employment standards, professional development, and an articulated career ladder leading to certification for paraeducators. It also requires the state's community and technical colleges to incorporate cultural competency training into their paraeducator training programs and to these candidates the opportunity to earn transferrable credits.

Section 1 is an intent section that discusses various experiences of school paraeducators, and is not necessary to interpret or implement the substantive provisions of the bill.

For these reasons I have vetoed Section 1 of Substitute Senate Bill No. 6129.

With the exception of Section 1, Substitute Senate Bill No. 6129 is approved.

Respectfully submitted,
Jay Inslee
Governor