Washington

NTC Induction Policy Survey

Background
Washington State began piloting teacher induction in 1985.  This program was effective and the Teacher Assistance Program was expanded state-wide in 1987.

In 1993 a more intensive mentoring program was piloted in four districts, including Seattle, with full time release for mentors and a significant investment of state funds.  This program was successful, but funding was not increased to allow this to be expanded statewide.  In 1999, the Washington State Institute for Public Policy prepared a report on beginning teacher support.  http://www.wsipp.wa.gov/rptfiles/teachprep.pdf

Washington has consistently provided funding supporting new teacher induction on a per teacher basis, but the amount of the funding has varied. The original funding level remained relatively constant until 2001-2, when it was doubled and additional specific requirements were attached by the legislature. Unfortunately, the following year the funding was cut in half, but the requirements remained the same.  The state gives districts funds to support teacher salaries based on a scale reflecting level of education and years of experience, however districts may supplement this.  Districts find additional funding from Title II Part A and initiative 728, a state program to allow districts to reduce class size but which also can be used for professional development.  Each year the OSPI allocates funding to districts based on the number of new teachers on staff in October; districts have another opportunity to add (or subtract) from the count in January, but only for partial funding. Districts use a web-based application process to apply for funds.

Current Status
Washington has a part-time legislature, which meets for a longer period in alternate years to consider major legislation and the two-year budget, which is adjusted in a shorter session the subsequent year.  The legislature will convene next in January of 2007, and the next budget cycle will begin in July 2007.