Date: 02/07/2006
Final
BILL SUMMARY for HB06-1150
HOUSE COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION
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01:23 PM -- House Bill 06-1150
Representative Hefley reviewed the provisions of House Bill 06-1150, concerning standards within the statewide system of public education. She discussed her reasons for bringing the bill and said that establishing uniform dates for public school classes would assist families that move within the state. She addressed concerns that may be raised concerning local control.
01:32 PM
Representative Hefley reviewed several current statutory provisions that set statewide standards, including accreditation. She stated that other states are considering setting statewide dates for public school classes. She said that having different dates set by local school districts hurts businesses and families. She also noted the impact of the current school district schedules on attendance at the Colorado State Fair.
01:40 PM
Representative Hefley responded to questions about the impact of the bill on the current differentiation in annual classroom hour requirements for elementary and secondary schools.
01:44 PM
The following persons testified:
01:44 PM -- Jerry McLain, representing the American Camp Association, testified in support of the bill. He testified that families would benefit from standardized school dates. He further testified that children need time in and exposure to the outdoors in the summer.
01:47 PM -- Bill Darrough, representing himself as a parent and Camp Timberline, Inc., in Estes Park, testified in support of the bill.
01:50 PM -- Kitty Clemens, representing herself, testified in support of the bill.
01:53 PM -- Craig Reed, representing the Broadmoor Hotel, testified in support of the bill. He spoke to the economic impact of school years beginning in August and the employment opportunities missed by high school students.
01:59 PM -- Ilene Kamsler, representing Colorado Hotel and Lodging, testified in support of the bill and provided two documents for the record (Attachments G and H).
02:01 PM -- Christie O'Donnell, representing the Colorado Restaurant Association, testified in support of the bill.
02:02 PM -- Paula Stephenson, representing the Rural Schools Caucus, testified in opposition to the bill. She testified that it usurped local control and was a one-size-fits-all solution.
02:04 PM -- Phil Fox, representing the Colorado Association of School Executives, testified in opposition to the bill.
02:06 PM
The bill was laid over until the committee's February 9th meeting.
02:06 PM
The committee adjourned.