Washington 2023-2024 Regular Session

Washington House Bill HB2374

Introduced
1/15/24  

Caption

Establishing the Washington promise program.

Impact

If enacted, HB 2374 is expected to have a profound impact on state education laws. It will allocate additional resources specifically aimed at technological improvements in schools, thus mandating a reevaluation of current funding structures. The bill may also result in the establishment of new guidelines for the adoption of educational technology, ensuring that all students, regardless of their socioeconomic status, have access to modern educational tools. This could heighten the focus on digital literacy as a fundamental component of the curriculum, shaping future educational policies.

Summary

House Bill 2374 is designed to enhance funding for educational technology in public schools across the state. The bill emphasizes the integration of technology into the curriculum, aiming to prepare students for a digital future. It proposes a significant increase in state funding designated for technological enhancements, which includes both hardware and software, as well as training for educators to effectively implement these tools in the classroom. Proponents of the bill argue that this initiative is crucial for closing the educational gap by providing equitable access to quality resources for all students, especially in underfunded districts.

Contention

Despite its promising intentions, the bill has faced critiques from various stakeholders, including some educators and budget analysts who argue that the financial implications of the proposed funding increases might not be sustainable in the long run. Concerns have been raised regarding the prioritization of technology over other critical areas of educational funding, such as teacher salaries and special education services. Additionally, there are discussions about whether the technology provided will be effectively used in classrooms, as some teachers feel they need more support and training to integrate these resources meaningfully.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WA SB5712

Expanding the Washington college grant and establishing the Washington college promise program.

WA SB5958

Establishing the Washington career skills grant program.

WA HB2244

Improving retirement security for Washingtonians by establishing Washington saves, an automatic enrollment individual retirement savings account program, and updating the Washington retirement marketplace statute.

WA SB6148

Establishing maternal and perinatal quality of care metrics for Washingtonians on medicaid.

WA SB6069

Revised for Engrossed: Improving private Washington workforce retirement security standards by establishing Washington saves, an automatic enrollment individual retirement savings account program, and updating the Washington retirement marketplace statute.Revised for 1st Substitute: Improving retirement security for Washingtonians by establishing Washington saves, an automatic enrollment individual retirement savings account program, and updating the Washington retirement marketplace statute.Original: Improving retirement security for Washingtonians by establishing Washington saves, an automatic enrollment individual retirement savings account program, and updating the Washington retirement marketplace statute.

WA HB2309

Establishing the Washington 13 free guarantee.

WA HB1657

Establishing the Washington 13 free guarantee.

WA SB5305

Establishing the office of career connect Washington.

WA SB5759

Establishing the development of renewable energy for Washington revolving loan program and account.

WA HB2417

Establishing the development of renewable energy for Washington revolving loan program and account.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.