This bill amends several sections of Washington's public education laws to enhance efficiencies and implement programming changes. Key provisions include the establishment of a reimbursement schedule for school districts regarding student transportation vehicles, with a new minimum anticipated lifetime of 180 months for buses scheduled for depreciation payments starting September 2025. Additionally, the bill mandates the development of a universal online platform for high school and beyond plans, which will provide students with tools for career and college preparation. The platform must include features such as personalized plan creation, compliance with privacy requirements, and integration of academic data, among others.

Furthermore, the bill outlines funding adjustments for running start programs, allowing students to be funded for a maximum of 1.4 full-time equivalents in the 2025-26 school year and 1.2 in subsequent years. It also requires the office of the superintendent of public instruction to track and report on student participation in these programs. The act is declared an emergency measure, taking effect immediately to ensure the preservation of public peace, health, or safety, and support for state government and its institutions.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 28A.160.200, 28A.230.215, 28A.600.402