The bill aims to enhance equitable access to postsecondary education in Washington by improving data sharing between the Washington Student Achievement Council, institutions of higher education, and the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction. It mandates that these entities enter into data-sharing agreements to facilitate the transfer of high school student directory information, which will help inform students about postsecondary educational opportunities and financial aid available in the state. The bill also specifies that the agreements must include provisions for sharing student enrollment and outcome information, ensuring that the statewide student identifier is maintained for each student.

Additionally, the bill requires school districts to transmit directory information for all enrolled high school students to the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction annually. This information will be made available to the Washington Student Achievement Council and institutions of higher education. The bill emphasizes the importance of compliance with consent procedures and outlines the specific purposes for which the collected directory information can be used, including providing information related to college awareness, admissions, and postsecondary financial aid. Overall, the legislation seeks to streamline data sharing to better support students in their transition to higher education.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 28B.10.041, 28A.150.515
Substitute Bill: 28B.10.041, 28A.150.515
Bill as Passed Legislature: 28B.10.041, 28A.150.515
Session Law: 28B.10.041, 28A.150.515