OLYMPIA—Before becoming a legislator, Rep. Joe Timmons (D-Bellingham) worked as a preschool teacher and as an administrator at Western Washington University. Improving the quality of life for K-12 students within our state is a topic that he’s personally vested in and working hard to achieve this Legislative Session.
Earlier today, Timmons’ HB 1478, which will establish a statement of student rights, was heard on the House floor and passed with a 61-35 vote with bipartisan support.
“This bill will ensure public schools develop student-focused educational and promotional materials to incorporate the statement and include materials into civics instruction,” said Timmons.
“Many students don’t know their rights when it comes to free exercise of religion, freedom of speech, the right to petition the government for a redress of grievances, freedom from unreasonable searches and seizures, and a right to equal protection under the law. Our students also need to know their rights and responsibilities as citizens of the U.S. and Washington state, how our electoral system works and how to register to vote and how to become a citizen of the U.S. if not born here,” added Timmons.
“Our public schools have an inherent duty to provide students with the opportunity to graduate with a meaningful diploma that prepares them for postsecondary education, gainful employment, and citizenship,” concluded Timmons.
On Monday, Timmons’ HB 1536, which will modify the ability of some school districts to withhold diplomas from students with small debt (under $1,000), was heard on the House floor. It passed 74-21 with bipartisan support.
“This bill is really a step towards addressing our state’s current workforce challenges and investing in our state’s future.” Timmons said. “Withholding high school diplomas from students who owe fines for lost textbooks, or for damaged musical or athletic equipment just doesn’t add up. By the time a student is finishing up their senior year of high school, the state already has already invested a significant amount of money over the course of their academic career. Allowing students to receive their diploma is common sense and will help students get on with their lives so they can contribute to their community and our economy.
“I also view this bill as fixing an equity issue. I’m concerned that students that can’t afford to pay a minor debt will lead a society of the haves and have-nots,” Timmons said. “I’m not saying that school districts should simply ignore all debt, but this bill strikes a balance by providing a mechanism for students that owe more than $1,000 to engage in community service to pay back their debt. This bill makes so much sense in helping address Washington’s workforce needs and addressing inequity in our education system at the same time.” he added.
Both bills now head to the Senate for further consideration.