This morning the Senate Higher Education & Workforce Development Committee considered several bills. 

The Committee held a public hearing on five bills ranging from the establishment of the University Center of North Puget Sound to the development of common course numbering for two- and four-year institutions.

Senate Bill 5654 would require the Higher Education Coordinating Board and the State Board for Community and Technical Colleges convene representatives from each of the institutions of higher education, to establish a single set of common course numbers and common course descriptions for all common lower division courses at all institutions of higher education.

Evergreen testified with concerns on SB 5654 because Evergreen does not offer courses and does not have course numbers. Instead, the College offers single, comprehensive programs rather than a series of separate courses.  In addition, we expressed concern that if directed to adopt courses and a numbering system, Evergreen would greatly restrict the transfer policy that is currently in place.

Senate Bill 5608  would require Western Washington University to coordinate and participate with Olympic College, Everett Community College, Skagit Valley College, Whatcom Community College, Bellingham Technical College, Northwest Indian College to provide a program that leverages the leadership of returning veterans. The Evergreen State College signed-in, in support of the bill.

Senate Bill 5719 would fix tuition for students who identify as individuals with disabilities under the federal Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The Council of Presidents testified in opposition to SB 5719 with the primary concern being fiscal. The bill would reduce tuition revenues for institutions that would negatively impact the education and service  provided to all students.  The Evergreen State College signed-in opposed.

Finally the Committee held public hearings on two additional bills that Evergreen took no position on. Senate Bill 5674 would create the aerospace training student loan program.

Senate Bill 5636 would create the University Center of North Puget Sound. The bill assigns management and leadership of the University Center at Everett Community College to WSU to meet demands for baccalaureate and graduate degrees in Everrett, north Snohomish Island, and Skagit counties and Washington, particularly in high employer demand programs of study.