The 2012 Legislature has kicked off very quickly. We’re already more than one-third of the way through this one-month session!  By the end of this week, we’ll have a pretty good picture of which legislation has the potential to become law.

Here’s a quick update on what’s happened so far and what’s on the calendar in the coming days.

The Governor’s education reform legislation – SB 1581 -- passed out of the Senate Education Committee Wednesday. The vote was 4-1 with Sens. Mark Hass, Frank Morse, Lee Beyer, and Elizabeth Steiner-Hayward supporting and Sen. Larry George opposed. This is an important step! Next, this bill will go to the Ways & Means Education Subcommittee.

Check out this news story!

This legislation will set up Achievement Compacts between the state and school districts. These contracts are the first step to creating an Oregon system of accountability for school districts to replace the one-size-fits-all model required under No Child Left Behind. It also creates the reporting structure for the Chief Education Officer, who will be responsible for connecting early learning, K-12, and college in a seamless system of education to better serve students.

The February Revenue Forecast was released Wednesday. Before the forecast, Oregon had $140 million left in reserves. The forecast predicted that we’ll have $35 million less than the last estimate. Essentially, this leaves $105 million in reserves and means no further cuts to schools before the end of the school year.

What’s next for other bills on Stand's agenda?

Principal and teacher evaluation legislation (HB 4102) has a hearing this morning. This bill would ensure that evaluations occur regularly and include significant consideration of student learning.

Tuition Equity Legislation hasn’t been introduced as a formal bill this session. However, champions are still working to keep the issue alive. An informational hearing is planned for Tuesday, February 21st, 3-5 PM in the House Higher Education Committee.

Dana Hepper, Oregon Advocacy Director