Bill > SB5859

This bill amends existing Washington state law to expand graduation pathway options for public high school students by adding competency-based assessments as a potential method for demonstrating career and college readiness. Specifically, the bill modifies existing rules to include competency-based assessments alongside other existing options like dual credit courses, Advanced Placement exams, and performance-based learning experiences. The bill allows students to demonstrate their academic preparedness through multiple pathways, giving them more flexibility in how they prove their readiness for post-secondary education or careers. Key changes include adding competency-based assessments as a potential option in high school transition courses and advanced coursework, and requiring school districts to provide comprehensive information about these pathway options to students in grades eight through twelve. While schools are encouraged to offer multiple pathway options, they retain discretion in determining which specific options to make available. The overall goal is to provide students with diverse ways to show they meet state learning standards in English language arts and mathematics, supporting individual student goals and learning styles.

Education

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5859&Year=2025&Initiative=false