SUMMARY of PROCEEDINGS

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Approval Pending

of SUMMARY

P ROCEEDINGS JOINT EDUCATION INTERIM COMMITTEE

C OMMITTEE MEETING INFORMATION June 3 and 4, 2013 Conference Room, Oil and Gas Commission Building 2211 Kings Boulevard Casper, Wyoming

JOINT EDUCATION C OMMITTEE MEMBERS PRESENT Senator Hank Coe, Cochairman Representative Matt Teeters, Cochairman Senator Jim Anderson (SD02) Senator Paul Barnard Senator Bill Landen Senator Chris Rothfuss Representative Cathy Connolly Representative John Freeman Representative Hans Hunt Representative David Northrup Representative John Patton Representative Jerry Paxton Representative Albert Sommers

TH JOINT L ABOR C OMMITTEE MEMBERS PRESENT (JUNE 4 2013) Senator Charlie Scott, Cochairman Representative Elaine Harvey, Cochairman Senator Jim Anderson (SD28) Senator Bernadine Craft Senator Leslie Nutting Representative Eric Barlow Representative Kathy Coleman Representative Matthias Greene Representative Norine Kasperik Representative Lloyd Larsen

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 14

Representative Mary Throne Representative Sue Wilson

C OMMITTEE MEMBERS N OT PRESENT Senator R. Ray Peterson Representative Lee Filer Representative Garry Piipparinen

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

OTHERS PRESENT AT MEETING 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 related to educational issues. The Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) presented information on the audit of the data unit and consolidation of data reporting requirements. The Attorney General's Office and the Department of Family Services presented information on the Jason Flatt Act and suicide prevention. The Committee also received information regarding school bus safety and the passage by motorists while school buses are stopped. The Wyoming State Board of Education (State Board) provided an update to the Committee on the search of a director for the WDE. Lastly, the Committee met jointly with the Joint Labor Committee to receive various reports on preschool and early learning programs.

CALL TO ORDER Co-Chairman Teeters called the meeting to order at 8:30 a.m. The following sections summarize the Committee proceedings by topic. Please refer to Appendix 2 to review the Committee Meeting Agenda.

AUDIT OF WDE DATA FUNCTIONS Dr. Jim Rose, Interim Director of the WDE, spoke to the Committee about the audit conducted by RTI International of the data unit of the WDE. He introduced the consultants hired to perform the audit, which included Ms. Amanda Richards, Mr. Mike Townley, and Mr. John Vavricka. Mr. Townley summarized the findings of the audit. Generally, the findings were as follows: lack of a strategic plan, lack of technology standards, lack of processes and procedures, lack of effective functional organizational design, support of traditional IT functions distracts from focus on core competencies, data collection systems are not rationalized and insufficient analysis and reporting capacity. See Appendices 3 and 4. Mr. Vavricka went on to discuss the lack of industry standards utilized by the WDE in collecting and conducting data analysis. He followed up that model standards could be implemented and adopted by the WDE and such industry standards are readily available. Ms. Richards went on to discuss the need for an effective organizational design and suggested the immediate hiring of personnel to fill three vacancies, including a service manager/owner, a data architect, and a statistician. She noted the existing employees work well together, have extensive institutional knowledge, but are unable to perform all the work necessary and required without additional staff and resources. Committee members posed several

JOINT EDUCATION INTERIM COMMITTEE Summary of Proceedings

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 14

questions related to vacancies and the ability to fill the noted positions quickly. Dr. Rose responded to the questions, noting that the future budget for the agency will necessitate reorganization and realignment, which will include a new organizational chart and position realignment and classification. Representative Paxton inquired about district input in the data processes. LSO staff noted the existence of the Data Advisory Committee and the regular meetings of this body. Representative Freeman asked about the efforts of Dr. Rose to fill the seven vacancies that exist in the unit to date. Dr. Rose responded that he has made no effort to fill the vacancies, noting that he wanted the results from the data audit conducted by RTI International, and that it is likely that reclassification of the existing positions will be necessary along with the utilization of the B-11 process to reflect the positions and job duties suggested by RTI International. Ms. Richards moved on to discussion of the findings, explaining in more detail the lack of the useful reporting capacity and the necessity to create reporting that is useful for the school districts. Representative Patton voiced his support for the statements by the consultants in relation to the importance of creating reports that are useful for the school districts. Ms. Richards continued discussion of possible solutions and action steps to improve the functioning capacity of the data unit. The recommendations include securing temporary staff immediately to meet outstanding and incomplete data reports and requests. She noted the possibility of securing services through the University of Wyoming as a short term solution. Representative Connolly inquired about the timeline for completion of the five activities noted in the short term solutions, including hiring of temporary staff. See Appendices 3. Dr. Rose responded that the securing of temporary staff will likely allow the existing permanent staff to focus on the other objectives noted by the consultants reports as short term action items.

Senator Rothfuss moved that staff draft a letter to transmit on behalf of the JEC requesting that the Governor not transfer any positions from the WDE information management unit to ETS until the WDE concludes its reorganization of the unit and releases any unneeded positions or until the 2015-16 budget recommendation. The motion was seconded by Senator Landen. Co-chairman Teeters requested the ETS receive a copy of the memo. Senator Landen clarified that the B-11 process should be utilized if necessary to ensure the appropriate personnel is hired to complete the work. The motion passed.

Senator Rothfuss moved that the WDE present a proposed agency reorganization and an accompanying budget at the JEC's July meeting for committee consideration and input. The motion was seconded by Representative Northup. The motion passed.

CONSOLIDATION OF SCHOOL DISTRICT REPORTING AND DATA COLLECTIONS Dr. Rose introduced the topic of consolidation of school district reporting and data collections as required by 2013 Wyo. Sess. Laws, Ch. 73, Section 338. Mr. Drew Dilly, Director of Information Management for the WDE, gave a status report on the WDE's efforts in relation to this project. He noted the input and activities of the Data Advisory Committee briefly. Senator Anderson requested clarification of the membership of the Data Advisory Committee. Mr. Jed Cicerelli, Wyoming Department of Education, provided the Committee with clarification regarding the activities and membership of the Data Advisory Committee, which includes representatives from the 48 districts, mostly business managers, a superintendent, a representative from LSO and the Department of Audit. Mr. Dilly continued discussion of his efforts for data consolidation and the collection of information from student transcripts. Co- chairman Teeters requested if statutory changes are necessary in reference to data collections or student transcripts, he would appreciate suggestions from the WDE regarding what revisions they recommend making.

Mr. Kirk Schmidt, Assistant Superintendent of Fremont County School District No. 1, spoke to the Committee about data collections by the WDE and the efforts of the Data Advisory Committee. He noted that he thought the data collected by the WDE was done so in a useful manner and that the Data Advisory

JOINT EDUCATION INTERIM COMMITTEE Summary of Proceedings

Committee made several thoughtful recommendations moving forward. Representative Patton requested clarification of the activities of the Data Advisory Committee. Mr. Drew Dilly noted that he could make the minutes of Data Advisory Committee available to JEC members. Senator Rothfuss followed up with a request that the WDE summarize the nature of the Data Advisory Committee and its actions and recommendations and provide that information to the Committee.

SUICIDE PREVENTION AND THE JASON FLATT ACT Attorney General Greg Phillips spoke to the Committee about the Jason Flatt Act and the possibility of enactment of the model legislation in Wyoming. See Appendices 5. Mr. Phillips noted that the model legislation has been enacted in 12 states and utilized in many others as model for implementation of similar programs. He noted that there would be no fiscal impact to the proposed legislation and the material is made available free of charge from the Foundation. Mr. Phillips stated the proposed legislation would be approximately two pages and would be a very simple bill for consideration. He noted the in-service training is approximately eight hours for teachers and can be absorbed in existing professional development requirements and would not result in removing teachers from the classroom. Mr. Phillips gave a brief description of the history of the act and the genesis of the Jason Foundation. He noted that WDE has also been involved in the discussion and supports the effort of implementation of the Jason Flatt Act.

Mr. Mike Corsi, Director of the Department of Family Service, spoke to the Committee about his involvement with suicide prevention. He also stated that Wyoming is second in the nation for youth suicide. Ms. Shea Moore provided the Committee with additional details related to the Jason Foundation. Representative Sommers stated he supported the effort for suicide prevention and education in this regard. Representative Connolly requested clarification of the necessity of utilization of the Jason Flatt curriculum. Director Corsi responded that the requirement is for a generic suicide prevention program that requires teachers and school administrators partake in professional development and that there is no mandate for the curriculum made available from the Foundation.

Representative Connolly moved that staff draft legislation requiring suicide prevention in-service training for all teachers and school administrators. The motion was seconded by Representative Northrup. Senator Rothfuss requested clarification of the in-service and the training requirements, noting that repeating the same training for teachers and administrators would not be useful. He also inquired about similar requirements related to professional development for other areas or programs. Staff clarified that specific professional development requirements are not mandated by state statute and the school funding model simply generates funding for ten days of professional development, but it is a matter of local control and district prerogative how those days are utilized and what programs are administered. Staff followed up that there may be professional development requirements from a licensing standpoint, but there are not statutory mandates which require specific professional development. The motion was adopted.

COMMITTEE BUSINESS Staff presented a draft memo in response to the motion passed by the Committee to draft a letter to the Governor in reference to the data audit conducted by RTI International and support the efforts to implement the short term action items as noted within the report. See Appendix 6. The Committee agreed with the proposed language and directed staff send the memo to the Governor.

JOINT EDUCATION INTERIM COMMITTEE Summary of Proceedings

SCHOOL BUS SAFETY Superintendent Diana Clapp spoke to the Committee about proposed legislation in light of an incident in Fremont Co. School District No. 6 (FCSD #6) involving a motorist that passed a school bus with the stop sign extended that resulted in the death of the student. Superintendent Clapp reviewed the program and shared video footage as a result of the program implemented by FCSD #6, including cameras mounted on school buses. See Appendices 7 and 8. Mr. David Koskelowski, WDE, responded to Committee questions regarding the number of buses in the state. Superintendent Clapp then spoke to the Committee about proposed legislation to increase penalties associated with passing a school bus and utilization of video evidence for prosecution. Representative Hunt requested clarification of utilization of school suburbans and the expansion of visibility of all school vehicles to include such vehicles. Mr. Koskelowski noted that there are 266 such vehicles in use by schools district and that some of these vehicles are in fact utilized on regular bus routes, noting this was particularly true for very rural areas. Co- chairman Teeters noted that Representative Hunt's concern could be addressed via rule and regulation or proposed separate legislation.

Mr. Koskelowski also spoke to the Committee about school bus safety and the regulations and laws associated with passage of school buses by motorists. See Appendix 9. He noted the various statutory and regulatory provisions which guide requirements for bus markings and lighting. He also spoke to the Committee about various data collections conducted by the WDE and summarized the national and statewide data on the passage of stopped schools buses by motorists in violation of the law. Mr. Koskelowski noted that the cameras installed in FCSD #6 were reimbursed by the WDE. He followed up that installation and purchase of cameras for all buses in the state would range from $1,600,000 to $3,000,000, depending on the model of camera chosen. Co-chairman Coe inquired about the possibility of engaging in a public awareness campaign with the Wyoming Department of Transportation to raise awareness about this issue in conjunction with the cameras or as a separate initiative. Mr. Koskelowski supported this idea. Senator Landen inquired about the possibility of including cross-walk safety in this initiative. Representative Freeman inquired about the placement of school bus stops. Mr. Koskelowski commented that there are standards for determination of the location for picking up and dropping off students, but that the specific location rests with the decision of the local district and its board.

Ms. Nita Werner, Converse County School District No. 1, spoke to the Committee about the program utilized in her school district. She stated that the district installed one camera at the cost of $1,200 and in one month the video footage resulted in 18 violations with a 100% conviction rate. She went on to state the installation and program was so successful that the district is purchasing additional cameras. There was some discussion by Committee members and members of the audience regarding the cost to install the cameras initially and the lag in reimbursement by the WDE, which poses a significant problem according to some individuals.

Co-chairman Coe requested staff draft proposed legislation to increase penalties for motorists passing schools buses in violation of the law. Co-chairman Teeters clarified that the legislation should also address purchase of cameras and utilization of the photographic evidence for prosecution. He noted the legislation as passed in Iowa should be considered in drafting. Co-chairman Teeters also requested that the legislation include mandatory inclusion of cameras in all new bus purchases.

WDE PERMANENT DIRECTOR UPDATE Dr. Paige Fenton-Hughes, Coordinator for the Wyoming State Board of Education (SBE), provided the Committee with the update regarding the search for the director for the WDE. See Appendix 10. She

JOINT EDUCATION INTERIM COMMITTEE Summary of Proceedings

outlined the activities of the SBE in reference to this activity, noting the significant input by stakeholders in searching for appropriate candidates. She concluded her presentation with discussion of the three candidates chosen by the SBE to be forwarded to the Governor.

PUBLIC COMMENTS Ms. Stephanie Sabrosky, Stop Common Core, spoke to the Committee about her concerns regarding data collection as related to the common core standards. See Appendix 11. She noted that the data collected by school districts should not be shared with the state or the federal government. Senator Rothfuss posed several questions related to the connection between the data issues identified in the information presented and the common core standards. Ms. Amy Edmonds also spoke to the Committee about the relationship between Race to the Top, the common core and privacy issues. Co-chairman Coe noted that the area of common core received substantial comments when adopted by the SBE approximately two years ago. He also commented that the topic of common core is not on the list of interim topics and as such the Committee cannot address via a Committee bill. He further stated that the topic of standards and the adoption of the common core is within the authority of the SBE and that, that is the appropriate body to hear any substantive concerns with the content of the standards. Co-chairman Teeters requested Ms. Edmonds and Ms. Sabrosky prepare a white-paper regarding the concerns surrounding this area. Senator Anderson requested the information include factual, evidence-based information that specifically articulates the position and issues with the common core and the direct correlation between these facts and their concerns. Senator Rothfuss requested educational professionals prepare a similar paper with the facts and information which support the adoption of the common core. Dr. Rose indicated he would submit the information prepared for the Select Committee on Educational Accountability to the JEC regarding frequently asked questions on the topic of the common core standards as adopted by the SBE and implemented in Wyoming.

RECESS Co-chairman Teeters recessed the meeting at 4:30 p.m. on Monday, June 3 and Co-chairman Coe reconvened the meeting at 8:30 a.m. Tuesday, June 4. The members of the Joint Labor Interim Committee joined the JEC for the meeting held on the morning of June 4, 2013.

EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH Mr. Tom Forslund, Director of Department of Health (DOH), spoke to the Committee about programs provided to children ages birth through age five via the Individuals with Disabilities Act in accordance with Part B and C. See Appendices 12 and 13. Ms. Chris Newman, Senior Administrator of the Behavioral Health Division, DOH, gave detailed comments about the programs administered in accordance with the requirements of Parts B and C of IDEA. She explained the various child find activities conducted by the agency within the state and noted that the percentage of children identified in accordance with Part B and C is in excess of the national average in both instances.

Dr. Forslund suggested the transfer of the pre-school programs from the Department of Health to the WDE in an effort to stream-line programing and systems. Senator Nutting inquired about the growth rate in proficiency for the students receiving services and requested further explanation. Ms. Newman responded that the data collected is limited to the services provided during the preschool years and that there is no mechanism currently to collect data on a long term longitudinal basis related specifically to the children that receive services via the DOH for preschool related activities. Representative Kasperik

JOINT EDUCATION INTERIM COMMITTEE Summary of Proceedings

requested additional information related to the Director's suggestion for transfer of programs from the DOH to the WDE. Ms. Newman responded that she would envision the entire unit, including existing personnel, transferring to the WDE to avoid the loss of institutional knowledge. Dr. Forslund followed up that the transfer would allow data to be gathered on a long term basis and ensure a more unified effort regarding services. Co-chairman Teeters requested additional information regarding the recommendation for transfer of the program to the WDE. He noted that TANF students receive WISER ID numbers and it would seem that would allow collection of longitudinal data. He requested the DOH provide additional information regarding this suggestion.

Senator Scott requested information related to identification of students and the process for delivery of services. Ms. Rebecca Walk, DOH, provided explanation regarding this issue. Senator Scott requested clarification of the identification process and explanation of the standard deviations with regard to assessments for identification. Ms. Walk responded that identification requires the child perform two standard deviations below proficient on certain assessments. She further stated that there are additional mechanisms for identification. Representative Connolly requested clarification regarding the proposed transfer for the pre-kindergarten activities to the WDE. She inquired about the possibility of overlap for services for certain children for other programs administered by DOH. Ms. Newman responded that there are certain services that would overlap for the same children. Representative Harvey explained the genesis of the program being placed in the DOH, noting the overlap of medical services under Part C of IDEA and the transition to activities more educationally related under Part B. Dr. Forslund noted that the pre-school programs under the DOH will experience a four percent budget reduction as a result of the reduction of state-level funds.

PROVIDER COMMENTS Lori Morrow, Child Development Services for Wyoming/Child Development Services for Fremont County, spoke to the Committee about the organizational structure for developmental preschools. She noted the 14 regions, which include 46 developmental preschools. See Appendix 14. Ms. Morrow noted the services provided, including developmental screenings. She moved on to discussion of the staffing, noting that budget difficulties make hiring difficult, particularly in light of the increases in funding for the K-12 educational program and potential reductions in the area of preschool funding. Ms. Morrow discussed the partnership between public and private entities related to funding for these programs. Mr. Mitch Brauchie, Children's Resource Center, discouraged any reduction of funding for the developmental preschools and noted that in his opinion there is no over-identification of students. He noted the prior budget reductions and requested that additional reductions not take place. Co-chairman Teeters inquired about recommendations for budgets as the Legislature considers the issue. Mr. Brauchie responded that he would request that no additional reductions take place and that the four percent reduction be replaced.

DEPARTMENT OF FAMILY SERVICES Director Steve Corsi, Department of Family Services (DFS), presented information to the Committee related to the activities conducted by the DFS in relation to pre-kindergarten students. See Appendices 15, 16, and 17. Ms. Jillian Balow, Family Assistance Division Administrator, DFS, gave a detailed description of the funds and the programs administered by DFS in relation to this particular population of children. The programs include protective services, child protection, SNAP (formerly food stamps), and numerous additional initiatives to improve the quality of life for children. Ms. Balow also discussed the various professional development activities required in relation to the programs administered by the DFS in relation to early childhood activities. She discussed the details of Child Care Development Fund and the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). She also discussed the Instructional Foundation for Kindergarten assessment (IF-K) and the activities related to this activity. She stated, using 2011 data, 77% of pre-school student receiving TANF were proficient on the IF-K as compared to approximately

JOINT EDUCATION INTERIM COMMITTEE Summary of Proceedings

50% for all student's entering kindergarten. Representative Greene requested information related to the percentage of single-families that receive TANF assistance. Ms. Balow responded that 99% of the families are single parent families that receive this type of assistance.

Director Corsi provided comments on activities that could be utilized to stream-line activities related to pre-school services. Ms. Balow noted that the agency has issued an RFP for services which relates to the services currently provided by DFS in this area. Representative Throne inquired about the data available for the children and families that receive assistance outside of the TANF program by DFS. Ms. Balow noted that there is no comprehensive data collection of the population served with regard to educational outcomes for populations served outside of TANF. Representative Connolly noted the data indicated approximately 51% of children are kindergarten ready in comparison to 77% for those served by TANF. In addition, she inquired about the nature of the RFP and the services sought by DFS. Ms. Balow responded that the RFP is seeking services to coordinate regional and community services.

DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION Dr. Rose introduced the activities performed by the WDE in relation to pre-kindergarten services and early childhood. See Appendix 18. Ms. Julie Magee, WDE, summarized the various budgets utilized to deploy services to the pre-kindergarten and early childhood populations. Ms. Tiffany Dobler, Director of Special Education WDE, discussed the various programs deployed by the Special Programs Unit and the WDE to the student population ages three to five in accordance with Part B of IDEA. Dr. Rose noted the complexity of the issue and the necessity to study the issue and ensure that a thoughtful and comprehensive approach is utilized in addressing the issue of pre-school and early learning opportunities. He suggested the Committee commission a study of the issue to align all agencies and the activities conducted for this population.

DEPARTMENT OF WORKFORCE SERVICES Ms. Lisa Osvold, Deputy Director of Wyoming Department of Workforce Services (DWS), discussed the role of Why Quality Counts in the context of the preschool discussion and the grants or scholarships provided by this entity in relation to head start licensed facilities. See Appendix 19. She noted that this program is the professional development component for Head Start and public awareness efforts for birth through age five. Ms. Sheila Ricley, Department of Workforce Service, oversees the Head Start Program and the allocation of funds to the Head Start Field Offices. See Appendix 20. She noted that as a result of sequestration her budget will be reduced by five percent. Representative Connolly inquired about the frequency of meetings which include the collective agencies to discuss the efforts of the various parties. Ms. Ricley responded that the Wyoming Early Childhood State Advisory Council meets regularly, which includes various stakeholders and state and local agencies. Co-chairman Teeters also inquired about the genesis of placement of Head Start within the DWS. Ms. Ricley responded that there was a study conducted when the position was moved and based upon a recommendation, supported by Governor Mead, the program was located within the DWS.

WYOMING EARLY CHILDHOOD STATE ADVISORY COUNCIL Ms. Brittany Ashby, Executive Director of the Wyoming Early Childhood State Advisory Council (Council), and Ms. Kendra West, Director of the Evanston Child Development Center Wyoming, spoke to the Committee about the activities of the Council. See Appendix 21. She noted members are appointed by Governor Mead and that the Council has a very diverse membership. Ms. West noted that the Council has completed developmental guidelines for ages birth through three and that the Council is currently working on preparing similar guidelines for ages three through five. She noted the second set of guidelines will likely be completed in the summer of 2013 for consideration by Governor Mead. Ms. West noted the Council meets every other month and when transferred to DFS, the Council will meet

JOINT EDUCATION INTERIM COMMITTEE Summary of Proceedings

quarterly. Ms. Ashby noted that the Council has contracted with Wyoming Survey and Analysis Center at the University of Wyoming to streamline data collection and analysis. Senator Landen requested input from the presenters regarding suggested improvements related to delivery of services and data collection and tracking. Ms. West responded that the efforts are very decentralized and coordination of the multiple efforts is very difficult. Representative Connolly requested additional information of the funding for the Council and the nature of the members of the Council. Ms. West responded that the funding for the Council is via a grant award through the federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act received in 2011 that will expire the summer of 2014. After July of 2014, the DFS will take over administration and funding for a very basic program; she noted that the meetings will be quarterly upon DFS taking over the Council. Ms. West noted that members of the Advisory Council are voluntary. Representative Kasperik noted the importance of addressing education and support of single parent families.

WYOMING KIDS FIRST Ms. Mary Garland, Ellbogen Foundation, spoke to the Committee about the activities of the Wyoming Kids First Program (Program), an initiative partially funded by the Ellbogen Foundation. See Appendix 22. She noted the importance of addressing the pre-school population and applauded the efforts of the Legislature via the Hathaway Scholarship Program and followed up that early childhood education and services is the other part of the equation to ensure success for Wyoming's youth. Ms. Becca Freeburn- Steinhoff continued discussion of the Program, outlining the history and philosophy of the program and the initiatives deployed. She explained the nature of developing programs via a collaborative, community based effort to improve the lives of children and families. Ms. Freeburn-Steinhoff summarized the Program's partnership with Hot Springs County School District to administer the Early Childhood Liaison Program that was implemented in the fall of 2009 because more than 50% of their incoming kindergarteners were not prepared for success according to readiness measures. She highlighted several additional initiatives and community based programs that are underway or are under consideration by the Program to improve early childhood readiness, including the programs deployed in Fremont County School District No. 6, Albany County School Readiness Initiative, and the Weston County Early Childhood Partnership. Ms. Freeburn-Steinhoff concluded her presentation by noting the interdependence of early childhood problems that are systemic and noted the importance of having shared vision for impact that includes a common understanding of the problem for young children and families. Ms. Rae Lynn Job spoke to the Committee about options that may be available to continue the efforts of the Program and leverage state and private resources for a common goal, including setting up an endowment to fund early childhood initiatives and the possibility of establishing a public and private partnership for early childhood initiatives, similar to the National Board Certified Program. Co-chairman Coe commended the work of the Ellbogen Foundation and the Program. Representative Connolly requested information on the budget for a public-private provision. Ms. Garland noted that to date the program has expended approximately $700,000 and the Ellbogen Foundation recently committed to an additional $500,000 to support future efforts initiated by the Program. Representative Patton inquired about the Ellbogen Foundation's interaction with the Advisory Council. Ms. Freeburn-Steinhoff stated she is a member of the Advisory Council and attempts to bring the district perspective to the table in those discussions.

PUBLIC COMMENTS Ms. Jill Bramlet, Interim Director of the P-16 Council, spoke to the Committee about the efforts of the P- 16 Council in relation to the Advisory Council. See Appendix 23. She noted importance of a system that coordinates efforts from preschool to college and supported the Committee's continued study of the issue.

Ms. Lauren Nordeen, Wyoming Child and Family Development, spoke to the Committee about the activities of Head Start Programs, including serving children ages birth through five and families through

JOINT EDUCATION INTERIM COMMITTEE Summary of Proceedings

this program. She noted that Head Start is present in every county in Wyoming except one and that Head Start Programs often partner with TANF and child development centers and that there is a strong partnership with providers. Ms. Jamie Stockwell, Executive Director of Absaroka, Inc., noted the center she oversees serves seven counties. See Appendix 24. She noted the importance of the State focusing on early childhood and investing in families to decrease educational and social costs. She encouraged the Committee to invest in early childhood education and initiatives.

Superintendent Diana Clapp, Fremont County School District No. 6 (FCSD #6), summarized the program administered in her school district to address the preschool population that may otherwise not receive educational services. See Appendix 25. She explained that FCSD #6 partnered with the Wyoming Kids First Program to serve high-risk populations via a traveling classroom Ms. Michelle Carr, Teacher for FCSD #6, spoke to the Committee about the program and the partnership between the district and the community. She noted it was the goal of the program to serve children in need of additional services to enable the kids to succeed as students and then later as citizens. Ms. Carr gave the Committee a detailed example of her work as a teacher in a mobile classroom.

Mr. Bill Winney, private citizen, provided comments to the Committee regarding children of military and veteran families and supported the comments by Senator Anderson in reference to this issue.

LEGISLATIVE COMMENTS Senator Scott commented that the general principles need to address the 30% of students that are not proficient on the PAWS in entering kindergarten. He suggested remedies that will address a uniform definition of kindergarten readiness that is easy to understand. The Senator commented that he is skeptical of the organizational modifications suggested, but that if reorganization does take place it would make the most sense to move the programs to DFS, given the demands on the other agencies. He also commented that he supported the idea of a matching program for state and private early learning initiatives. Representative Harvey suggested consolidation of the programs within the WDE to ensure a streamlined approach and goals and ensure the ability to track information. She also suggested funding for the programs via the school foundation program. She went on to support the notion of innovation and new ideas for pre-school and early childhood education programs and voiced support for public-private partnerships to continue in ways that are unique to serve community needs. Representative Throne inquired about the potential for overlap of services, and the population served and concluded that in her opinion there is no comprehensive early childhood program and supported the idea of requesting the executive branch coordinate to suggest a comprehensive early childhood program plan. Representative Kasperik voiced her support for the continued study of the issue. Senator Anderson supported the notion of retaining local control and innovation in the pre-school and early learning initiatives. He cited the example utilized in Hot Springs County. Representative Connolly suggested a motion be made to direct staff to draft legislation to create an endowment similar to that created for the library foundation to create a public and private matching partnership. Representative Patton suggested the Committee consider the suggestion by Dr. Rose to request the executive agencies collaborate to submit a comprehensive plan to address the needs of early childhood learning. Representative Harvey requested the Joint Education Committee copy the Joint Labor Committee with any reports or information submitted in accordance with any motions or actions taken.

Senator Rothfuss moved that staff, in consultation with relevant agencies, develop a chart synthesizing activities described today, including agency/entity, program, funds, source of the funds (with breakdown state/federal), target of the funds (e.g. low income), and any restrictions on the use of the funds. The motion was seconded by Senator Anderson. The motion was adopted.

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Senator Rothfuss moved that staff draft a memo to the Governor requesting he assemble representatives from each of the agencies overseeing early childhood development programs to prepare a list of policy recommendations to facilitate better coordination and more efficient use of available funds towards a cohesive early childhood development program and report back to the Joint Education Committee and the Joint Labor Committee. He further clarified the report should include suggestions of methods to promote better collaboration among existing projects and programs, and any reorganization necessary to facilitate better overall performance. The motion was seconded by Senator Anderson. The motion was adopted.

Senator Rothfuss moved that staff draft legislation to expand the use of IF-K to all relevant state funded programs as appropriate, and encourage the continued development of the IF-K assessment, to include articulating what it means to be kindergarten ready in a way that families can understand and providing guidelines for families. The motion was seconded by Senator Anderson. Representative Freeman noted he was concerned with the proposed motion and would not support it. He stated he thought it was premature given the status of the programming. Representative Connolly noted that the IF-K is an assessment that is customized for Wyoming and that it has been utilized for the prior five years. Representative Patton and Co-chairman Teeters noted concern in voting for the motion as well, agreeing that the motion is premature. The motion was adopted.

Representative Connolly moved that staff draft legislation to establish a matching endowment fund for counties for early childhood learning and systems building modeled after the library endowment challenge program. The motion was seconded by Senator Rothfuss. The motion was adopted.

Representative Connolly moved that staff draft legislation establishing a public-private partnership for early childhood learning and systems building modeled after the national board certification program. The motion was seconded by Senator Rothfuss. The motion was adopted.

MEETING ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, Co-Chairman Teeters adjourned the meeting at 12:50 pm.

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

2A Committee Meeting Provides an outline of the topics the Legislative Service Office Agenda – June 3, 2013 Committee planned to address at meeting

2B Committee Meeting Provides an outline of the topics the Legislative Service Office Agenda – June 4, 2013 Committee planned to address at meeting

3 Audit of WDE Data Chart/Summary: Information Technology RTI International, Ms. Functions and Data Systems Assessment, Wyoming Amanda Richards Department of Education

4 Audit of WDE Data Report: Information Technology and Data RTI International, Ms. Functions Systems Assessment, Wyoming Amanda Richards Department of Education

5 Suicide Prevention and the Report: Jason Flatt Act Wyoming Attorney Jason Flatt Act General's Office, General Greg Phillips

6 Audit of WDE Data Draft Memo; To: Governor Mead; From: Legislative Service Office Functions Joint Education Committee; Subject: Wyoming Department of Education – Data Information Technology and Data System Assessment Audit

7 School Bus Safety Power point: School Bus Safety, Joint Fremont County School Education Committee, June 3, 2013 District No. 6

8 School Bus Safety Report: Appendix B, "Kayden's Law: Fremont County School School Bus Safety," Senate Education District No. 6 Committee, February 22, 2013.

9 School Bus Safety Report: School Bus Safety Update Wyoming Department of Education

10 WDE Permanent Director June 3, 2013 Memo; To: Joint Education Wyoming State Board of Update Committee; From: Paige Fenton-Hughes; Education Re: Update on the search for the Director of the WDE

11 Public Comment Information: Data Collections by the Stephanie Sabrosky,

JOINT EDUCATION INTERIM COMMITTEE Summary of Proceedings

United States Department of Education Stop Common Core

12 Early Childhood Education October 1, 2012 Memo; To: Joint Wyoming Department of Education Committee and Joint Labor Health, Director Tom Committee; From: Tom Forslund, Director; Forslund Subject: Legislative Report: Developmental Disabilities Preschool Program

13 Early Childhood Education Survey Response: Wyoming Department of Wyoming Department of Health, Behavioral Health Division Health, Director Tom Forslund

14 Early Childhood Education Power point: Update Wyoming Child Development Developmental Preschools 2013-2014; Services of Wyoming Wyoming's Approach to Successfully Launching Children into K-12 and Beyond

15 Early Childhood Education Report: Early Care and Education Wyoming Department of Programs; June, 4, 2103 Family Services, Director Steve Corsi

16 Early Childhood Education Survey Responses Wyoming Department of Family Services, Director Steve Corsi

17 Early Childhood Education Chart and Statistics: 2013 State of Child Wyoming Department of Care Centers in Wyoming Family Services, Director Steve Corsi

18 Early Childhood Education Report: Early Childhood Education; June, Wyoming Department of 4, 2103 Education, Interim Director Jim Rose

19 Early Childhood Education Survey Responses: Wyoming Quality Wyoming Department of Counts Workforce Services, Director Joanne Evans

20 Early Childhood Education Survey Responses: Head Start Wyoming Department of Collaboration Office Workforce Services, Director Joanne Evans

21 Early Childhood Education Report: Wyoming Early Childhood State Wyoming Early Advisory Council, June 4, 2013 Childhood State Advisory Council, Brittany Ashby

22 Early Childhood Education Presentation: Wyoming Kids First: An Ellbogen Foundation and Initiative of the Wyoming Early Childhood Wyoming Kids First, Partnership, June 4, 2013 Mary Garland

23 Early Childhood Education News Article: Babes on the Bus – Wind Fremont County School River takes Preschool to Students District No. 6, Superintendent Dianna Clapp

JOINT EDUCATION INTERIM COMMITTEE Summary of Proceedings

24 Early Childhood Education Report: Park County School District #1: Wyoming Child and Preschool Transitions Program Family Development, Lauren Nordeen

25 Early Childhood Education Report: Wyoming Education Coordinating Wyoming Education Council: "Linking Education in Wyoming." Coordination Council, Interim Director Jill Bramlet

JOINT EDUCATION INTERIM COMMITTEE Summary of Proceedings