The proposed bill, known as the Building Opportunities for Student Success (BOSS) Act, aims to improve student performance in Washington, particularly in literacy and mathematics, by implementing evidence-based practices and accountability measures. It addresses the concerning statistics of student underperformance by proposing additional funding for school districts to support students not meeting grade-level standards, hiring reading coaches, and implementing structured literacy programs aligned with the science of reading. Key provisions include the establishment of a grant program for early elementary literacy, performance-based funding allocations for school districts, and bonuses for educators who contribute to student growth. The bill also mandates monitoring of literacy programs by the office of the superintendent of public instruction to ensure compliance with new requirements.

Additionally, the bill introduces significant changes to the regulations governing salaries and benefits for certificated instructional staff, requiring districts to report actual salaries and limiting fringe benefits to those exceeding a specified allocation. It mandates the implementation of a structured literacy program for students in kindergarten through fourth grade, prohibits ineffective teaching methods, and requires updates to teacher endorsements related to literacy competencies. The bill also emphasizes the creation of a comprehensive handbook for identifying and providing services to students with dyslexia, mandates a multitiered system of supports for early signs of dyslexia, and outlines intensive reading improvement strategies for third-grade students who do not meet promotion requirements. Overall, the BOSS Act represents a comprehensive approach to enhancing educational outcomes and support for students in Washington.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 28A.150.010, 28A.400.200, 28A.320.202, 28A.300.530, 28A.300.570, 28A.150.220, 28A.300.720, 28A.320.260, 28A.415.265, 28A.405.100, 28A.655.235, 28B.10.033