This bill aims to update the compensation structure for school board directors in Washington State, which has remained unchanged for 40 years. It amends RCW 28A.343.400 to increase the daily compensation for board members from $50 to $100, with a new annual cap of $13,750. Additionally, any compensation exceeding $3,000 per year must be authorized by the board and can only be funded through locally collected levy funds. The bill also introduces provisions for directors to waive their compensation and mandates that the Office of Financial Management review and adjust compensation every five years based on cost of living changes.

Furthermore, the bill establishes a new training program for school directors, focusing on school district funding and finance, which must be developed by the Washington State School Directors' Association. All current and future school directors are required to complete this training within specified timeframes, and they will not incur any fees for attendance. The training is designed to enhance their understanding of funding structures, budgeting practices, and fiscal accountability. The bill includes a provision that if specific funding for the training is not provided by June 30, 2026, the training requirement will become null and void.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 28A.343.400, 28A.320.050