Joint Education Committee Minutes

Draft Only

Approval Pending

of SUMMARY

P ROCEEDINGS JOINT EDUCATION INTERIM COMMITTEE

COMM ITTEE M EETING I NFORMATION July 15 and 16, 2013 Central Wyoming College Little Theater (SC 104) Riverton, Wyoming

JOINT EDUC ATIO N COM M ITTEE M EM BERS PRESENT Senator Hank Coe, Cochairman Representative Matt Teeters, Cochairman Senator Jim Anderson (SD02) Senator Bill Landen Senator Chris Rothfuss Representative Kathy Connolly Representative John Freeman Representative Hans Hunt Representative John Patton Representative Garry Pipparinen Representative David Northrup Representative Albert Sommers

SELECT COMMITTEE ON T RIB AL REL ATIO NS M EM BERS PRESENT Senator Cal Case, Cochairman Representative Patrick Goggles, Cochairman Senator Bernadine Craft Representative Lloyd Larsen Representative Jerry Paxton

COMM ITTEE M EM BERS NOT PRESENT AT M EETING Senator Paul Barnard

ADDITIONAL LEGISLATORS PRESENT AT M EETING Senator Eli Bebout

The Committee Meeting Summary of Proceedings (meeting minutes) is prepared by the Legislative Service Office (LSO) and is the official record of the proceedings of a legislative committee meeting. This document does not represent a transcript of the meeting; it is a digest of the meeting and provides a record of official actions taken by the Committee. All meeting materials and handouts provided to the Committee by the Legislative Service Office, public officials, lobbyists, and the public are on file at the Legislative Service Office and are part of the official record of the meeting. An index of these materials is provided at the end of this document and these materials are on file at the Legislative Service Office. For more information or to review meeting materials, please contact the Legislative Service Office at (307) 777-7881 or by e-mail at [email protected]. The Summary of Proceedings for each legislative committee meeting can be found on the Wyoming Legislature’s website at http://legisweb.state.wy.us. PAGE 2 OF 17

LEGISLATIVE SERVICE OFFICE STAFF Dave Nelson, School Finance Manager Matt Willmarth, School Finance Analyst Tania Hytrek, Staff Attorney Lily Sharpe, Staff Attorney

OTHERS PRESENT AT M EETING Please refer to Appendix 1 to review the Committee Sign-in Sheet for a list of other individuals who attended the meeting.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The Joint Education Committee (JEC) met to receive information from various educational agencies and interest groups. Topics discussed included the education of Wyoming's Native American population, alternative learning environments, early childhood education, the Hathaway Scholarship program, data and technology. The Select Committee on Tribal Relations joined the Joint Education Committee for the discussion related to educational opportunities for Wyoming's Native American Population.

CALL TO ORDER Co-Chairman Coe called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. The following sections summarize the Committee proceedings by topic. Please refer to Appendix 2 to review the Committee Meeting Agenda.

UPDATE: EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES FOR WYOMING'S NATIVE AMERICAN POPULATION.

WYOMING DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION Dr. Jim Rose, Interim Director of the Wyoming Department of Education (WDE), spoke to the Committee about educational issues related to Wyoming's Native American population. Topics included educational programs, financial resources and student performance related to the noted population. Dr. David Holbrook, Federal Programs Division Director, WDE, briefly discussed the A-133 Compliance Monitoring of Fremont County School District #38 (FCSD #38). See Appendix 3 and 4. Dr. Rose summarized his discussions with FCSD #38 regarding the findings and recommendations of the audit and next steps related to this issue. Dr. Holbrook briefed the Committee about the financial resources provided to the districts which serve Wyoming's Native American population, including the school foundation program and federal programs and impact aid. See Appendix 5. Dr. Rose and Dr. Holbrook moved on to discussion of the academic performance of the Native American population. See Appendices 6, 7, 8 and 9. The information included discussion of graduation rates by district, performance results on the statewide assessment and adequate yearly progress. Dr. Rose and Dr. Holbrook outlined some of the difficulties faced by the districts serving these students, including substantial turn-over of school and district personnel. Dr. Holbrook also discussed the history related to the education of this population and the stigma that must be overcome culturally and the importance of receiving an education. He cited specifically to the practice of sending students to boarding schools and prohibiting the speaking of their native language as setbacks to the education of the Native American population. Dr. Holbrook also provided the Committee with information related to the Wyoming Education Native American Conference, hosted by the WDE and generally discussed the role of the tribal liaison as employed by the Wyoming Department of Education. See Appendix 10.

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WYOMING LEGISLATIVE SERVICE OFFICE • 213 State Capitol • Cheyenne, Wyoming 82002 TELEPHONE (307) 777-7881 • FAX 307-777-5466 • E-MAIL [email protected] • WEB SITE http://legisweb.state.wy.us PAGE 3 OF 17

STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION Ms. Paige Fenton-Hughes, Coordinator for the Wyoming State Board of Education (SBE), spoke to the Committee about the issues facing the Native American student population from the perspective of the SBE. See Appendix 11. Mr. Scotty Ratliff, member of the SBE, stated the academic issues facing the Native American population is not a cultural issue, but is related to poverty and socio-economic issues. Senator Rothfuss inquired about the possibility of raising the age for compulsory attendance to age eighteen, as proposed during the 2013 session, and he inquired if the State Board would support this as a possible successful intervention. Mr. Ratliff responded that the reservation has already adopted a policy of attendance through age eighteen.

FREMONT COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT # 14 (FCSD #14) Ms. Michelle Hoffman, Superintendent, FCSD #14, spoke to the Committee about educational issues as experienced in the district she serves. See Appendix 12. She provided the Committee with information related to the socio-economic issues experienced by the Native American population. She also discussed the academic performance of the Native American population, noting that progress is being made. Ms. Hoffman suggested increasing the penalties associated with compulsory attendance and failure to send your children to school. In addition, she noted the importance of pre-school and kindergarten readiness in the educational success of all students.

FREMONT COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT #21 (FCSD #21) Ms. Karen King, Board Member, FCSD #21 gave the Committee several suggestions with regard to improving the services for the Native American population, including reconsideration of assessment tools, noting that these tools are not created to assess skills and knowledge of the Native America population. She also suggested working closely with the community colleges and the University of Wyoming to focus on teaching methods to deal specifically with the Native American population. Ms. King requested the Committee learn about the history of America and the impact and importance of the Native American population.

FREMONT COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT #38 (FCSD #38) Ms. Chantell Denson, Superintendent, FCSD #38, provided the Committee with information related to her efforts in the district she serves. She noted the systemic issues of poverty and socio-economic status that impact the performance and learning of the Native American population. Senator Rothfuss requested additional information regarding pre-school opportunities for this population. Ms. Denson responded that pre-school opportunities have been limited due in part to the decisions of the School Facilities Department. Representative Connolly inquired about the possibility of implementing a pilot pre-school program. Ms. Denson was receptive to this idea and commented that a pilot program would be useful in her district to serve the pre-kindergarten population.

ST. STEPHENS SCHOOL Mr. Mike Hejtmanek, Superintendent, spoke to the Committee about the activities of St. Stephens School. See Appendix 13. He outlined various initiatives that he is instituting as the new superintendent, including utilization of a block schedule as opposed to a seven period day and shifting the focus of students to concentration on academic performance. Mr. Hejtmanek suggested that increased parental involvement would also be beneficial in relation to student learning and in turn, performance on academic assessments.

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NORTHERN ARAPAHO BUSINESS COUNCIL Mr. Willard Gould, Northern Arapaho Business Council, echoed the comments made by the various school districts and noted his support for education and the continued learning of the Native American population.

Mr. Al Addison, Northern Arapaho Business Council, also spoke to the Committee. He noted the importance of focusing on education and supporting the continued learning of the population. Mr. Addison suggested the state officials increase communication in reference to education issues and initiatives and that the Committee continue to learn about the culture that exists on the reservation.

NORTHERN ARAPAHO HIGHER EDUCATION DIRECTOR AND EDUCATION DIRECTOR Mr. Kim Delorme, Northern Arapaho Higher Education Director, spoke to the Committee about scholarships offered to high school students for higher educational activities by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, which he oversees and administers. He outlined the various programs and scholarships that are offered.

Mr. Alfred Redman, Northern Arapaho Tribal Education Director, stated that the issues experienced by the Native American student population and those discussed today, are the same issues that he discussed forty years ago with the Wyoming Legislature. He suggested implementation of more rigorous curriculum and more difficult standards statewide, which would serve all students in the State, including the Native American population.

EASTERN SHOSHONE BUSINESS COUNCIL AND SHOSHONE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION Mr. Darwin "Sonny" St. Clair, Chairman of the Eastern Shoshone Business Council, spoke to the Committee about the importance of education and he echoed many of the comments made regarding the impact of poverty and cultural issues on the academic performance of the Native American student population. He supported efforts related to educational retention, increasing parental involvement and increasing the number of professional graduates within the Native American population. Mr. St. Clair suggested increasing the advanced courses for students and that additional efforts be made to identify specific learning styles within the Native American population. He also supported the effort to require students to learn the history of the Native American population and their impact on the history of Wyoming.

Ms. Harmony Spoonhunter, Director of the Eastern Shoshone Education Department, reported information related to the program administered during the 2012-2013 school year. She noted that 90 scholarships were provided by the Eastern Shoshone Education Department. Ms. Spoonhunter also noted that the Eastern Shoshone Education Department has been collecting information related to the performance of students receiving the scholarships.

PUBLIC COMMENT Ms. Sue Jezek and Mr. Joe Smith, Wyoming Developmental Preschools, Region 14 Child Development Services, spoke to the Committee about the efforts of the preschool center that serves the population on the reservation. See Appendix 14. Ms. Jezek outlined the importance of educating children at a young age, beginning at birth through age five, prior to the entry of the K-12 system. She spoke to the Committee about the loss of space and transportation services that were previously provided by FCSD #38. Ms. Jezek discussed the various funding mechanisms in relation to child development centers; she specifically noted the loss of funds by federal sequestration and the maintenance of effort requirements in

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relation to federal funds. Mr. Smith concentrated on the uniqueness of the program offered by the Region 14 Center and the services provided to children ages birth through five via special education.

Senator Anderson inquired about the possibility of providing scholarships to incentivize teachers to concentrate in the area of early childhood development, specifically in the area of speech-language. He noted that it may be helpful to explore the possibility of concentrating on the Native American population to fill these scholarship opportunities. Ms. Jezek agreed this was an exciting prospect.

Representative Larsen requested clarification of the funding and the impact of the elimination of the services previously provided by FCSD #38. Ms. Jezek responded that this will make the delivery of education very difficult and that the Center is unsure of how it will proceed.

Ms. Sara Robinson, Eastern Shoshone Tribal Liaison to the Governor, commented on the necessity of increasing communication related to education. She outlined her many educational and professional accomplishments and discussed the need to grow professional occupations and opportunities in the Native American student population. Ms. Robinson noted that Wyoming history needs to include a robust discussion of the tribes and their impact on American history and that the current education on this subject is lacking. She noted that she is available to provide information as needed by the Committee.

ALTERNATIVE LEARNING ENVIRONMENTS

DISTANCE EDUCATION: WYOMING DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION Ms. Teri Wigert, Support Systems & Resources Division Administrator, WDE, spoke to the Committee about distance education. She began with discussion of the 2012 audit conducted by the Wyoming Department of Audit of the distance education programs. See Appendix 15. Ms. Wigert noted the Department of Audit's findings related to milestones, attendance and funding. She stated that the WDE disagreed with the Department of Audit in these instances, noting that milestone completion is the best alterative available in determining attendance in the distance education environment. Ms. Wigert also noted that it was not necessary in her opinion to revisit the funding for distance education at this time. Mr. Scott Bullock, Distance Education Consultant for WDE, discussed the various compliance and administrative components of distance education programs. See Appendix 16, 17 and 18. He outlined the various models utilized for enrollment of such programs, including self-contained, partnership and full-time transfer models. Ms. Lachelle Brant, Distance Education Consultant for WDE, spoke to the Committee about several policy recommendations in response to the work of the WDE in the area of distance education. The Department's recommendations as communicated by Ms. Brant included amendment of the current statutory scheme to incorporate the reverse-partnership model, which would, in her opinion, allow virtual transfer students to supplement their distance education coursework with classes from the provider's non-resident district. She requested LSO staff review and make recommendations that will enable this arrangement. Ms. Brant also suggested the factional limitation imposed on attendance should be eliminated as currently exists in statute.

Senator Rothfuss moved that staff conduct a review to draft statutory amendments that enables two districts to determine a distance education student's primary enrollment without regard to the student's geographic location; allows for the primary enrolling student to collect the student's full membership and through agreement, transfers necessary funding to the concurrent enrolling district; and removes the fractional limitation imposed upon attendance and membership generated through the delivery of education. Senator Landen seconded the motion. The motion passed.

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Ms. Brant moved on to discuss WDE's second recommendation, requesting the sixteen to one student to teacher ratio for grades kindergarten through three be eliminated as applied to distance education classrooms. Representative Teeters moved that staff draft a bill to accomplish the recommendation made by the Department. The motion was seconded by Senator Rothfuss. The motion passed.

Lastly, Ms. Brant recommended the term "distance learning plan" and the requirement for "achievable performance benchmarks" and monitoring the "participating student's progress as measured by his distance learning plan" be eliminated from the statutory requirements due to unintended consequences. Senator Anderson requested staff include these deletions in the draft addressing the first recommendation by the Department.

DISTANCE EDUCATION: WYOMING VIRTUAL ACADEMY AND K-12 INC. Ms. Mary Gifford, Senior Vice President of Policy, K-12 Inc., introduced the programs as provided by K- 12, including those offered in Wyoming. See Appendix 19. Ms. Nicole Tiley, Wyoming Virtual Academy, provided the Committee with general information related to distance education programs and specifically described the program as implemented in Niobrara County School District Number One. Ms. Gifford outlined the various challenges associated with virtual education and the student population these programs serve. Representative Teeters requested information regarding performance and dropout statistics as related to students attending the virtual program as opposed to the general student population. Ms. Gifford responded that she didn't have this information, but would provide it to the Committee. Senator Rothfuss further inquired about the efforts of other states. He requested the consultants provide recommendations based on their knowledge of other states' practices and procedures, if improvements can be made to the model utilized in Wyoming. Ms. Gifford agreed to provide this information to the Committee. Ms. Gifford moved on to discussion of policy recommendations. She indicated that a unique identifier for the virtual education students would be useful in accountability and improvement measures. Ms. Gifford also noted that her organization is supportive of the recommendations made by the Department in their presentation on this topic.

Senator Rothfuss inquired about the possibility of implementing a unique identifier for students and if a statutory revision would be necessary. Mr. Jed Cicarelli, Wyoming Department of Education, responded that distance education students are aggregated within the district in which the student is enrolled and that at that level, a statutory change would be necessary. Senator Rothfuss responded that it may be possible to track the student within the enrolling district as a virtual education student and that perhaps this could be worked out at the agency and district level. Co-chairman Teeters cautioned the Committee in making broad policy changes in light of Dr. Crandall joining the Department in the near future. Ms. Mary Kay Hill, Governor Mead's Office, commented that Dr. Crandall has a wealth of knowledge in the area of discussion and that he would likely have thoughts and recommendations on the issue as well.

Representative Teeters inquired about the change in the graduation rate of Niobrara County School District Number One, noting the district experienced a substantial decrease in its graduation rate, from nearly eighty percent to approximately fifty percent. Ms. Gifford responded that the students enrolled in this program are under-credited when they enroll and outlined other challenges facing this group of students. Ms. Tiley followed up that the students that graduate in the fifth and sixth year are not included in the graduation rate as noted. Co-chairman Teeters responded that this is the same umbrella under which all districts calculate their graduation rates and that additional explanation of this issue will be necessary in moving forward with the discussion.

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DISTANCE EDUCATION: GETTING SMART (DISTANCE LEARNING AD VOCACY) Mr. Tom Vander Ark, Getting Smart (distance learning advocacy), spoke to the Committee about blended and on-line classroom models and opportunities. See Appendix 20. He outlined the benefits of blended learning for students, including customization, motivation and equalization. Mr. Vander Ark noted that on-line and blended learning is a savings for rural schools and will afford students opportunities that would not otherwise be available.

DISTANCE EDUCATION: ENTERPRISE TECHNOLOGY SERVICES Mr. Flint Waters, Director of Enterprise Technology Services, provided the Committee with information related to internet and broadband capacity as related to school districts. He noted that with the renegotiation of the contracts, it will result in a savings in excess of one million dollars for the State. Mr. Waters stated he is focusing on increasing capacity for the k-12 education community and then will move on to increasing the capacity of state agencies. Lastly, he concluded that his approach will allow redundant and continuous access, as opposed to the current approach where if there is a failure at the Emerson Building, the whole system goes down until the issue is resolved.

CHARTER SCHOOLS: WYOMING ASSOCIATION OF PUBLIC CHARTER SCHOOLS Ms. Kari Cline, Executive Director of the Wyoming Association of Public Charter Schools, spoke to the Committee about charter schools and the general statutory requirements and parameters associated with operation of charter schools. See Appendix 21, 22 and 23. She noted that there are approximately 6,000 charter schools across the country, serving 2.3 million students. Ms. Cline discussed briefly the performance of charter schools on a national level. She discussed some of the innovative ideas utilized by charter schools, including looping, modification of internal accountability and the ability to utilize content area experts as specialists. Ms. Cline noted efforts in the Denver Pubic Schools and Indiana in relation to charter school operation. She concluded her presentation by discussing the ranking of Wyoming nationally against the model law for supporting growth of high-quality public charter schools. In turn, she made a couple of policy recommendations, including investigation of multiple authorizing entities and the ability of securing state funded facilities. Ms. Cline suggested an independent authorizer be considered by Wyoming and cautioned the Committee in enacting legislation that places a cap on the number of charter schools that can be authorized. Senator Coe voiced concerns regarding any movement to privatize charter school operation and authorization, particularly in light of the constitutional provisions that may pose an issue. Representative Connolly supported the notion of an independent authorizer, but also voiced concerns about private entities seeking authorization as a charter school.

CHARTER SCHOOLS: WYOMING STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION (SBE) Ms. Paige Fenton-Hughes, Coordinator for the State Board of Education, outlined the discussions of the SBE related to charter school operation. See Appendix 24. She stated the Board largely supports the statements made by Ms. Cline. In addition, she noted the importance of collaboration between the districts and charter school applicants. Ms. Fenton-Hughes also discussed the unintended consequences related to funding of a new charter school and the competition that is experienced within a district when a new charter school is approved. She concluded her presentation by stating that the Board supports charter schools and recognizes the importance of charter schools that are high-performing and innovative and that continued conversation on this topic is necessary.

ALTERNATIVE SCHOOLS: WYOMING DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION Dr. Rose briefed the Committee on educational facts and data related to the operation of alternative schools in Wyoming. See Appendix 25 and 26. He gave a brief overview of the operation of alternative schools and the funding associated with these schools. The Committee discussed 13LSO-0208 that was sponsored by Representative Freeman in the 2013 legislative session. Representative Freeman explained

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that the draft legislation eliminated the moratorium imposed on establishment of new alternative schools and specified conditions for operation and approval of new schools. The proposed legislation also provided a mechanism for obtaining state-funded facilities after successful operation for a specified time. See Appendix 27.

Co-chairman Teeters moved staff draft a bill for consideration by the Committee at its next meeting that mirrors the legislation proposed by Representative Freeman in the 2013 session on the subject of alternative schools. The motion was seconded by Representative Connolly. Senator Rothfuss summarized the position of the Senate in not supporting the proposed legislation during the 2013 session, citing the lack of a clear understanding of the fiscal impact of the legislation as proposed. Co-chairman Teeters responded that this could be addressed with the help of the WDE, the School Facilities Department and staff.

UPDATE REPORT ON EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION AND DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS. Ms. Mary Kay Hill, Governor Mead's Office, provided the Committee with an update on early childhood education program coordination and the efforts directed by the Committee in this area. See Appendix 28. Ms. Hill stated that Governor Mead has initiated the effort as requested by the Committee, convening an ad-hoc steering committee consisting of various stakeholders with the goal of identifying baseline data and funding at the state and federal levels. She also stated information related to the Ellbogen Foundation and its efforts in this regard will also be included, along with geographic locations and populations served, to assist the Committee in creation of policy in this area. Ms. Hill also briefed the Committee on the efforts of the Early Childhood Advisory Council and its work in response to the work requested by the Committee. She noted a list of activities that the Council has undertaken, including establishing a needs assessment tool and policy recommendations with measurable indicators and data systems that will support this work. Ms. Hill concluded that the Governor will make a full report as requested at the Committee's October meeting.

RECESS Chairman Coe recessed the meeting at 5:30 p.m. on July 15 (Monday). Chairman Teeters reconvened the meeting at 8:30 a.m. on July 16 (Tuesday).

APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES Minutes from the June 3 and 4, 2013 Joint Education Committee meeting were approved without revision.

HATHAWAY SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

WYOMING DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION Dr. Jim Rose, Interim Director of the Wyoming Department of Education, presented reports on the Hathaway Student Scholarship, including scholarship statistics and information pursuant to W.S. 21-16- 1308(c), financial reporting on accounts funding scholarship awards in accordance with remediation rates, student retention eligibility requirements and information related to the Hathaway success curriculum. See Appendices 29. Ms. Lori Kimbrough spoke to the Committee about the basic trends of the data presented in the various reports, noting that the trends and projections have remained relatively stable and unchanged. The Committee engaged in discussion related to scholarship eligibility and Dr. Rose and Ms. Kimbrough clarified the parameters for eligibility. Senator Rothfuss inquired specifically about scholarship eligibility related to summer school courses. Ms. Kimbrough responded that the

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scholarship can be utilized for summer classes, but it is required that you attend on a full time basis, which is six credit hours during a summer session and that this attendance counts toward the eight semesters of scholarship eligibility.

UNIVERSITY OF WYOMING Dr. Mike Massie, University of Wyoming, spoke to the Committee about the Hathaway Scholarship Program. He began by discussing and responding to the various questions posed in relation to eligibility and the hours or semesters available via the scholarship. Dr. Massie moved on to discussion of retention and remediation issues related to the Hathaway Scholarship. See Appendices 30, 31 and 32. He summarized the data and statistics related to this issue, including the number of students for each scholarship level, the first year cumulative grade point average, the fall-to-fall retention rates, six year graduation rate and the degree grade point average for scholarship recipients. Senator Anderson inquired about remediation rates. Dr. Massie responded that approximately 7000 students have taken advantage of the Hathaway Scholarship, and approximately 15% of those students have required remedial mathematics. He clarified that it is his opinion that there have been gains in the most recent years and additional years of data will be very useful in addressing the remediation issue. Senator Anderson requested trend data be prepared to assist in policy making. Representative Patton inquired about data associated with students that require remediation that have taken advantage of advanced placement courses. Dr. Massie responded that he would attempt to get this information for the Committee. Senator Anderson inquired about the remediation rates of the community colleges. Dr. Rose responded to the Senator's question, clarifying that the University of Wyoming does not offer remedial math, and the high rates of remediation at the community college level is partially due to the influx of remedial students from the University of Wyoming that are dually enrolled. Senator Rothfuss requested the University present information related to remediation and students that took mathematics in their senior year of school. Dr. Massie also presented information related to tuition cost and scholarship awards and the respective percentages of the costs covered by scholarship awards. He discussed erosion of the purchasing power due to inflation and noted that generally it appears the purchasing power has been eroded by approximately 15%. Senator Landon inquired about the actuarial soundness of the scholarship fund in contemplating an increase of scholarship awards.

STATE TREASURERS OFFICE Ms. Sharon Garland, Deputy State Treasurer, and Ms. Darla Conn, Deputy Accountant of the State Treasurers Office, provided the Committee with a financial report regarding the Hathaway Scholarship Endowment Corpus and the expenditures from this account for scholarship awards. See Appendix 33. Ms. Garland explained the process for payment, investment and projections. She noted that capital gains are not included within the revenue projections. Ms. Garland indicated that sufficient resources exist through at least 2020 for payment of the Hathaway Scholarships, noting again, that this doesn't include capital gains. Senator Rothfuss inquired about developing an actuarial analysis to investigate the possibility of increasing scholarship awards. Ms. Garland responded that the best approach would be to have several parties investigate the issue jointly, including the Department of Education, LSO and the State Treasurers Office.

EDUCATION INFORMATION/DAT A SYSTEMS

ENTERPRISE TECHNOLOGY SERVICES Mr. Flint Waters, Chief Information Officer, and Ms. Meredith Bickel, Deputy Chief Information Officer, spoke to the Committee about the collaboration of the Enterprise Technology Services (ETS) and the Department of Education on the maintenance and collection of educational data. See Appendix 34. Mr. Waters stated that a partnership has been created with the Department of Education to ensure that

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technology services are provided in the most expedited and efficient manner. He noted that a task force is currently considering the administration and implementation of school finance and data collections via identification of requirements necessary to facilitate the integrity, accuracy and security of all information necessary for distribution of school finance payments. Mr. Waters briefed the Committee about the expansion of distance education and video conferencing that is underway. He noted that he has been working with various parties on securing memorandums of understanding related to the statewide longitudinal data systems and that it will be his role to ensure the information is transferred in a secure manner. Mr. Waters indicated that his office is also working on the educator credentialing system as mandated by the Legislature. Lastly, he gave an in-depth description of the "Wyo for Life" program to secure email addresses and accounts for every Wyoming student, teacher and individuals associated with the school system. Several members inquired about data ownership and how access will be controlled. Mr. Waters responded that the data discussed is "owned" by the individual that maintains and uses the account. Several members requested Mr. Waters give additional attention to communication regarding this program and the ownership aspect.

Chairman Teeters inquired about the status of the statewide longitudinal data system. Mr. Waters responded that an initial assessment of linkage and security was completed in 2012 and that a request for proposals is currently being drafted. He indicated the costs associated with maintenance of this program will be included in the next budget proposal by his office.

WYOMING DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION Dr. Rose updated the Committee on the Department's efforts in relation to the audit conducted by RTI in relation to data and the capacity of the agency in this regard. He indicated that the three positions as recommended by RTI will be advertised and filled in the near future and that this will greatly assist the agency in meeting data needs. Dr. Rose stated that the confidential PAWS data will be released to districts for review in the near furture and that it is anticipated that the information will be released to the public at the end of July. He briefed the Committee on the effort of the Community College Commission in moving the statewide longitudinal system forward, noting the implementation of a uniform platform for all seven community colleges to utilize. Dr. Rose stated that Dr. Mike Flicek has been retained by the Department and that the agency is working closely with Dr. Scott Marion and Dr. Chris Domaleski in completing the work related to the statewide accountability system.

UNIVERSITY OF WYOMING Dr. Mike Massie gave a brief statement regarding the University's participation in the statewide longitudinal system. He noted a grant was provided to the University via the Wyoming Community College Commission to assist in creation of a system to collect the statewide student data and that this funding mechanism was useful. He asked that the Committee consider this mechanism again in addressing continuation of this program. Dr. Massey also spoke to the Committee about its work with the Department of Workforce Services in creation of the system.

WORKFORCE SERVICES Dr. Tom Gallagher, Workforce Services – Office of Research, provided the Committee with an update on the activities of the Department of Workforce Services regarding monitoring and reporting on district compensation cost pressures with respect to the education block grant model monitoring process, and reporting on the workforce impact of the Hathaway Scholarship for longitudinal data system use. See Appendix 35. Dr. Gallagher briefed the Committee on the various confidentiality requirements associated with the work conducted by the Office of Research. He noted several federal requirements and the penalties associated with violation of those requirements. Dr. Gallagher described the wage comparison process. He noted that a memorandum of understanding with the Wyoming Department of

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Education to obtain student level data to conduct the analysis as requested by the Committee will be executed in the near future. Representative Sommers requested additional information regarding the statutory charge or requirement for monitoring information and activities collected and conducted by Workforce Services. Staff responded to the question, citing to W.S. 21-13-309 as the guiding principle that requires this work be undertaken. Representative Connolly inquired about the use of the data collected by Workforce Services in the upcoming recalibration and the possibility of staff and state agencies performing the services historically provided by consultants. Chairman Teeters responded that this has been the goal of the work over the course of the last several years. Senator Anderson inquired again about data ownership. Senator Rothfuss suggested the Committee and various stakeholders consider creation of a property right for data ownership to ensure protection and create a right of action in the event the privacy of such information is not protected appropriately. Dr. Gallagher responded to these questions, noting the protections afforded by federal privacy laws, which afford protection and remedies as described by Senator Rothfuss.

STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION UPDATE Ms. Paige Fenton-Hughes, Coordinator for the SBE, briefed the Committee on efforts to increase communication between the SBE, the Legislature and various stakeholders. See Appendix 36. She outlined the tentative schedule of meetings that will held at various locations across the state to provide outreach to educational professionals and community members. Ms. Fenton-Hughes noted that blackboard and virtual meetings have also been added at the request of the public and various stakeholders. She summarized the agenda and discussions that will be undertaken at the noted meetings, which will focus of the efforts related to administration and implementation of the Educational Accountability Act.

DRAFT LEGISLATION 14LSO-0041.W1, "THE JASON FLATT ACT" Staff explained the draft legislation related to suicide prevention education for teachers and school administrators. See Appendix 37. Representative Patton inquired about the possibility of conducting the professional development requirement over the course of several years as opposed to the requirement for one intensive eight hour training. Senator Rothfuss echoed the comments made by Representative Patton and the requirement for an eight hour intensive training and suggested instead that teachers and administrators be allowed to spread the training out over the course of service. Chairman Teeters noted he was supportive of spreading the training out over time, but would like to require all new teachers to participate in the training. In response to questions regarding existing professional development requirements, Senator Rothfuss stated staff prepared a list of current requirements and that this information could be forwarded to the members, but concluded that the burdens on school districts in this regard were not as onerous as he initially thought. Co-chairman Coe moved, seconded by Senator Anderson, the draft legislation 14LSO-0041.W1 be forwarded by the Joint Education Committee for introduction in the 2014 legislative session.

Senator Rothfuss moved, seconded by Co-chairman Coe, to amend page 3, line 1 after "education" strike "each school year" and insert "in school year 2014-2015, and at least eight (8) hours of suicide prevention education every four (4) school years thereafter." Chairman Teeters inquired about the requirement as it will apply to teachers that are newly hired by districts. Senator Rothfuss stated he considered it a friendly amendment that all new staff be required to take two (2) hours of training on suicide prevention prior to entering the classroom and that staff could incorporate aspect into the next draft. The motion to amend the draft legislation passed. The chairmen directed the legislation begin in the Senate.

The Committee voted do pass as amended on 14LSO-0041.W1. See Appendix 37A.

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14LSO-0042.W1, "EDUCATION-REQUIRED SCHOOL BUS VIDEO EQUIPMENT" Staff explained the draft legislation related school bus video equipment. See Appendix 38. Senator Anderson moved, seconded by Senator Rothfuss, the draft legislation 14LSO-0042.W1 be forwarded by the Joint Education Committee for introduction in the 2014 legislative session. Representative Sommers inquired about district capacity to fulfill the requirements as mandated by the legislation. Staff responded to the question. Senator Rothfuss expressed concern regarding the rulemaking requirement. Staff responded to the question, noting the availability of emergency rulemaking and the testimony by the Department previously that reimbursements are already being made for the video equipment. Representative Patton inquired about the existence of equipment on new bus purchases. Staff responded to the question. Representative Pipparinen inquired about the requirement for internal video equipment. Staff responded to the question, noting that such equipment is standard on most buses purchased.

The Committee voted do pass as amended on 14LSO-0042.W1. See Appendix 38A. The chairmen directed the legislation begin in the House.

14LSO-0046.W1, "EDUCATION-PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT TRAINING" Senator Landon explained his rationale for requesting the draft for consideration related to professional development and training and the requirement that it be conducted outside of the regular school year sessions. See Appendix 39. He noted that he made the request based on comments from constituents in his district and concerns voiced regarding the lengthening of school year. Senator Landon noted the provision of intensive professional development during the summer months is an intervention recommended by Dr. Larry Picus and Dr. Allan Odden in creation of the block grant funding model. At the request of Senator Landon, staff explained the draft legislation and the professional development resources as provided via the block grant model. Several members applauded the draft and noted that additional comments and input will be necessary in moving this concept forward. There was no motion on the draft legislation.

COMMITTEE COMMENTS Ms. Janine Bay-Teske, Teton County School Board Number One, commended the work of the Committee in addressing the issues associated with virtual education and alternative learning environments. She encouraged the Committee to take a hard look at the difference between charter schools and general public schools, and cautioned the Committee in taking local control away from school districts in approving the operation of charter schools within a school district.

COMMITTEE COMMENTS Senator Patton suggested the Committee consider making the State Board of Education an elected board as opposed to appointed upon the expiration of the terms of the current members. Co-chairman Teeters noted the legislation he proposed in the 2012 session addressing this issue.

Senator Rothfuss moved staff draft legislation, in consultation with the University of Wyoming and community colleges, to increase the flexibility of the Hathaway scholarship to allow students to participate in summer school programs, compressed programs or January term programs without experiencing a financial penalty or disproportionate loss of scholarship eligibility.

Representative Connolly moved the Committee draft a letter to the State Treasurer's Office requesting analysis of the Hathaway corpus and revenue projections in consideration of increasing the scholarship amounts awarded. Chairman Teeters clarified that staff has been bee directed to undertake this effort. Representative Connolly withdrew the motion.

JOINT EDUCATION INTERIM COMMITTEE Summary of Proceedings

MEETING ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, Co-Chairman Teeters adjourned the meeting at 1:15pm.

Respectfully submitted,

Representative Teeters, Co-Chairman

JOINT EDUCATION INTERIM COMMITTEE Summary of Proceedings

Committee Meeting

Materials Index

Appendix Agenda Item Appendix Description Appendix Provider

1 Committee Sign-In Sheet Lists meeting attendees Legislative Service Office

2 Committee Meeting Provides an outline of the topics the Legislative Service Office Agenda Committee planned to address at meeting

3 Update: Educational Memo: To: Members, Joint Education Wyoming Department of Opportunities for Committee/Select Committee on Tribal Education Wyoming's Native Relations, From: Jed Cicarelli, School American Population, Foundation Program Subject: Fremont Wyoming Department of County School District #38 A-133 Education Compliance Monitoring

4 Update: Educational Memo: To: Members, Joint Education Wyoming Department of Opportunities for Committee/Select Committee on Tribal Education Wyoming's Native Relations, From: David Holbrook, Federal American Population, Programs Division Manager, Subject: Wyoming Department of 2011-2012 school year – Federal Education Programs/Special Programs Monitoring Results

5 Update: Educational Memo: To: Members, Joint Education Wyoming Department of Opportunities for Committee/Select Committee on Tribal Education Wyoming's Native Relations, From: Jed Cicarelli, School American Population, Foundation Program, Subject: Educational Wyoming Department of Resources for Wyoming's Native American Education Population

6 Update: Educational Table: School Year 2011-2012, AYP Status Wyoming Department of Opportunities for – District Level (July 15, 2013) Education Wyoming's Native American Population, Wyoming Department of Education

7 Update: Educational Graphs: 2009-2012 Graduation Rates by Wyoming Department of Opportunities for District Education Wyoming's Native American Population, Wyoming Department of Education

8 Update: Educational Table: School Year 2011-2012 State Wyoming Department of Opportunities for Assessment Performance (July 15, 2013) Education

JOINT EDUCATION INTERIM COMMITTEE Summary of Proceedings

Wyoming's Native American Population, Wyoming Department of Education

9 Update: Educational Table: St Stephens Indian School – School Wyoming Department of Opportunities for Performance Information 2011-2012 (July Education Wyoming's Native 15, 2013) American Population, Wyoming Department of Education

10 Update: Educational Memo: To: Members, Joint Education Wyoming Department of Opportunities for Committee/Select Committee on Tribal Education Wyoming's Native Relations, From: David Holbrook, Federal American Population, Programs Division Manager, Subject: Roles Wyoming Department of and responsibilities of the Wyoming Education Department of Education Tribal Liaison (July 15, 2013)

11 Update: Educational Memo: To: Members, Joint Education Wyoming State Board of Opportunities for Committee/Select Committee on Tribal Education Wyoming's Native Relations, From: SBE Legislative American Population, Committee, Subject: Native American Wyoming State Board of education issues Education

12 Update: Educational Power point: Successes and Challenges at Fremont County School Opportunities for Wyoming Indian Schools District Number 14 Wyoming's Native American Population, Fremont County School District No. 14

13 Update: Educational Pamphlet: "Join us at St. Stephens Indian St. Stephens Indian High Opportunities for High School, Where we take your School Wyoming's Native education personally." American Population, St. Stephens Indian High School

14 Public Comment: Region Power point: Wyoming Developmental Wyoming Developmental 14 Child Development Preschools 2013-2014, Early Childhood Preschools, Region 14 Services Intervention Program, Region 14 CDS of Child Development Wyoming Services

15 Alternative Learning Audit: Statewide Distance Education Audit, Wyoming Department of Environments, Distance Final Report for Audit, Period: July 1, Education Learning 2009-June 30, 2010 (September 20, 2012)

16 Alternative Learning White paper: Wyoming Department of Wyoming Department of Environments, Distance Education, Alternative Learning Education Learning Environments – Distance Education (July

JOINT EDUCATION INTERIM COMMITTEE Summary of Proceedings

15, 2013)

17 Alternative Learning Handbook: Wyoming Switchboard Wyoming Department of Environments, Distance Network, Resident District Handbook: A Education Learning Guide to K-12 Distance Education 2012- 2013 (Revised September 2012)

18 Alternative Learning Report: 2011-2012 Summary Report of Wyoming Department of Environments, Distance Distance Education in Wyoming Education Learning

19 Alternative Learning Power point: Wyoming Virtual Academy Wyoming Virtual Environments, Distance Academy Learning

20 Alternative Learning Memo: To: Chairman Coe and Chairman Getting Smart Environments, Distance Teeters, From: Tom Vander Ark, CEO Learning Getting Smart, Date: July 9, 2013, RE: Presentation to the Joint Interim Legislative Education Committee

21 Alternative Learning White paper: Kari Cline, Testimony before Wyoming Association of Environments, Charter the Joint Education Committee, July 15, Public Charter Schools Schools 2013

22 Alternative Learning Frequently Asked Questions: National Wyoming Association of Environments, Charter Alliance for Public Charter Schools Public Charter Schools Schools

23 Alternative Learning Report: Measuring Up to the Model: A Wyoming Association of Environments, Charter Tool for Comparing State Charter School Public Charter Schools Schools Laws

24 Alternative Learning Memo: To: Members, Joint Education Wyoming State Board of Environments, Charter Committee, From: SBE Legislative Education Schools Committee, Subject: Charter schools in Wyoming (July 6, 2013)

25 Alternative Learning Memo: To: Members, Joint Education Wyoming Department of Environments, Alternative Committee, From: Jed Cicarelli, School Education Schools Foundation Program, Subject: Alternative Learning Environments – Alternative School Funding (July 15, 2013)

26 Alternative Learning Report: To the Joint Education Committee Wyoming Department of Environments, Alternative on Alternative Schools (July 15-16, 2013) Education Schools (Attachments Included)

27 Alternative Learning 2013 House Bill No. HB0164 Legislative Service Office Environments, Alternative Schools

28 Update Report on Early Memo: To: Senator Coe and Representative Governor Matt Mead Childhood Education and Teeters, From: Governor Matt Mead,

JOINT EDUCATION INTERIM COMMITTEE Summary of Proceedings

Development Programs Subject: Early childhood education programs coordination (July 15, 2013)

29 Hathaway Scholarship Report: Wyoming Departments of Wyoming Department of Program Education, Hathaway Scholarship Statistics Education 2011/12, State Level Reports – Comparing the First Six Cohorts (11/30/2012)

30 Hathaway Scholarship Table: Pending Hathaway Scholarship University of Wyoming Program Program (HSP) Reports

31 Hathaway Scholarship Table: Hathaway Student Retention & University of Wyoming Program Graduation Compared to Wyoming High School Graduates First-Time, First-Year, Full-Time Students Starting Fall 2006 through Fall 2012

32 Hathaway Scholarship Table: UW Undergraduate, Resident University of Wyoming Program Tuition, Mandatory Fees, and Hathaway Scholarship Analysis

33 Hathaway Scholarship Table: Hathaway Scholarship Endowment State Treasurer's Office Program Financial Summary (including corpus, expenditure and reserves)

34 Education Information / Memo: To: Honorable Hank Coe and Chief Information Officer Data Systems Honorable Matt Teeters, From: Flint Waters, State Chief Information Officer, Subject: Education Information Technology – Legislative Update (July 9, 2013)

35 Education Information / White paper: Education Information/Data Research & Planning, Data Systems Systems, Joint Education Committee, Tom Wyoming Department of Gallagher, Manager (July 16, 2013) Workforce Services

36 State Board of Education Memo: To: Members, Joint Education Wyoming State Board of Committee, From: Paige Fenton-Hughes, Education Coordinator for the State Board, Subject: Interim Study Topic-State Board of Education Communication (July 6, 2013)

37 Draft Legislation 14LSO-0041.W1 Legislative Service Office

37A Draft Legislation 14LSO-0041.W1 – Vote Record Legislative Service Office

38 Draft Legislation 14LSO-0042.W1 Legislative Service Office

38A Draft Legislation 14LSO-0042.W1 – Vote Record Legislative Service Office

39 Draft Legislation 14LSO-0046.W1 Legislative Service Office

JOINT EDUCATION INTERIM COMMITTEE Summary of Proceedings