Education Reform

Expanded Definition of Basic Education

House Bill 2261 is an action plan for the future of Washington's school system.
This legislation gives our school system a new, expanded legal definition of Basic Education, an important step to protect education funding now and in the future.  Activities and programs that meet the new definition are constitutionally protected from reductions.

A new definition of basic education

• Increased instructional hours
• The opportunity for students to complete 24 credits for high school graduation
• Transportation to and from school (phased in beginning 2013)
• All-day kindergarten (highest poverty schools first)
• Programs for highly capable students (at current 2.314% of student enrollment)

 All enhancements are subject to an implementation schedule adopted by the Legislature with full implementation by 2018.

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