Johnson bill to expand ‘College in the High School’ program clears House

March 3, 2015

Tenth-grade students may be able to take college courses in high school under a bill that cleared the Washington State House of Representatives Monday. John Sattgast reports from Olympia.

Sattgast: The state's “College in the High School” program is currently offered to high school students in 11th and 12th grades. College courses are offered for a fee that is substantially less than regular tuition. And the courses can eventually apply to a degree.

It's become so popular that high school sophomores are wanting to have a chance to also enroll. So at the request of Yakima's West Valley High School, 14th District State Representative Norm Johnson introduced House Bill 1031. The Yakima Republican stood on the House floor to urge passage.

Johnson: “Many of our high schools throughout the state of Washington have agreements with our various universities and colleges, which allows certain qualified students – and particularly my instance, it's the math class – to earn college credit. This is a savings for parents. I think it's a very good bill. And I would encourage the body to support this legislation.”

Sattgast: 14th District State Representative Norm Johnson, who says the program helps students to become college and career ready, allows them to build their skills, and opens doors to the future. The measure passed the House with a vote of 96-1. It now goes to the Senate for further consideration.

John Sattgast, Olympia.