The bill establishes a credential transparency work group within the Washington State Board to enhance the understanding and evaluation of postsecondary credentials. The work group aims to improve transparency by focusing on various aspects of credentials, including type, time to degree, earnings potential, and employer demand. It will review existing credential platforms and identify best practices to support students, workers, and employers in making informed decisions about credentials. The work group is tasked with providing recommendations for a shared definition of credentials, common terminology, and a statewide communications plan to raise awareness among stakeholders.
Additionally, the bill outlines the composition and responsibilities of the work group, which will include representatives from various educational institutions, industry, and workforce organizations. The board will provide staffing and resources to support industry demonstration projects that test credential transparency concepts across selected workforce sectors. The work group is required to report its findings and recommendations to the legislature by specified deadlines, ensuring ongoing evaluation and improvement of credential transparency efforts in Washington State.