OLYMPIA — A landmark bill to promote safe and inclusive schools in Washington was signed into law by Governor Ferguson on Tuesday, May 19. House Bill 1296, sponsored by Rep. Monica Stonier (D-Vancouver) sends a strong message that Washington’s public schools are focused on creating a safe, inclusive environment for all students to learn, grow, and reach their full potential.
“Our state has an obligation to provide every K-12 student with a quality education,” said Rep. Stonier. “We cannot allow shifting political winds to derail any child’s ability to learn in the classroom. Fear and anxiety can profoundly impact a child’s ability to be attentive, and it is our job to provide our kids with a safe and supportive learning environment.”
Educators and other school staff who support students in exercising their rights are afforded protection from retaliation under HB 1296 when performing their duties in accordance with professional obligations and legal mandates.
HB 1296 Bolsters Parental Rights
Parent or legal guardian involvement in their child’s education is paramount and strongly associated with better outcomes—such as improved attendance, higher grades, and increased graduation rates. This bill clarifies, strengthens, and codifies parental rights, including but not limited to:
- The right to observe student classrooms and school activities, and review curriculum and instructional materials
- Access to their child’s education records within 45 days
- Immediate notification if their child is involved in criminal activity, a school shooting, or abuse allegations involving school staff
Access to Education and a Safe Learning Environment Guaranteed for all Students
Every student enrolled in Washington’s public school system is guaranteed basic rights that safeguard access to education, which is outlined in the bill. Here are a few examples of existing right of Washington’s students including:
- Access to inclusive, accurate curriculum and educational services that result in a meaningful diploma for all students, including those with disabilities, students who are deaf and blind, and youth in juvenile detention or correctional facilities.
- The right to a learning environment free from discrimination, harassment, intimidation, and bullying for all students, including those from any protected class or marginalized group.
- Instructional materials that include historically and scientifically accurate information, including the histories and perspectives of historically marginalized and underrepresented groups.
Addressing School District Noncompliance
HB 1296 gives parents and students the ability to hold school districts accountable by creating a new process through which the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) can investigate and then take action against school districts found to be intentionally violating state law. School districts are given multiple opportunities to comply with state law. Sen. Claire Wilson (D-Auburn) worked closely with Stonier to craft and pass HB 1296.
“When school districts fall short, parents and students need a tool to ensure kids are protected and rules are followed,” Wilson said. “HB 1296 provides that tool by creating a way to hold school districts accountable when individuals in positions of power intentionally violate state laws meant to protect students. This bill will help foster inclusive, welcoming learning environments for children of all backgrounds so they can focus on learning.”
This bill focuses on ensuring school districts comply with laws that cover issues of civil rights (including discrimination and sexual harassment), harassment, intimidation, bullying, curriculum requirements, the use of restraint and isolation, and student discipline.
“When parents and schools work together, our kids win—period.” Rep. Stonier said. “HB 1296 supports and empowers the trifecta of educators, students, and parents, because that’s how we build a better Washington for generations to come. When students are supported and can show up authentically at school they can grow into the innovative thinkers and problem solvers we need.”
###