State Rep. Marko Liias, who represents the Lynnwood area, has introduced a bill that would ensure parents get time off work to attend teacher conferences.
Under the bill, a parent would be entitled to four hours of unpaid leave each year. A similar measure was introduced last session and passed the House. Liias says he’s optimistic that it will pass this year.
“Many of the jobs that folks have today, especially during the recession, don’t necessarily provide the benefits parents need to make a parent-teacher conference,” Liias said. “As we consider more budget cuts to education, the least we can do is ensure an active parent has the opportunity to be involved and support their child’s education.”
Nine states have adopted similar policies. Washington state’s Parent Teacher Association and teachers spoke in favor of the bill.
The next step is for the bill to be approved by the Labor and Workforce Committee before the cutoff of Feb. 23.
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