Creates the Pay for Actual Student Success to financially reward high schools that demonstrate an improvement in the high school dropout rate. This act creates specific criteria by which to measure a school’s success. This act also creates guidelines for programs implemented to improve dropout rates.   Official Text and Analysis.

Requries, rather than authorizes, the OSPI to set a minimum PASS award amount. The OSPI must establish objective criteria for prioritizing high schools if funds are not available for all schools. The OSPI must encourage, and may require, community financial or in-kind match for the PASS awards. The award is divided between the high school and school district at 90 percent and 10 percent, rather than being evenly split. A non appropriated Account is established to receive private and foundation grants and other funds to be used for PASS Program Awards, with expenditures authorized by the OSPI.

Recommends that in addition to providing a financial award for high schools that demonstrate improvement, the purpose of the Pay for Actual Student Success Program is to invest in proven dropout prevention and intervention programs. Subject to funds appropriated and as specified in the State Omnibus Operating Appropriations Act, funds are allocated to the Opportunity Internship program, the Jobs for America's Graduates program, and Building Bridges programs which have been determined to be successful in reducing dropout rates, and individualized student support services provided by a college scholarship organization under contract with the Higher Education Coordinating Board. Various agencies must collaborate to assure these programs operate systematically and are expanded to include as many schools and students as possible. The Dropout Reduction Account is renamed as the High School Completion Account and its purpose is to make investments in proven programs, as well as make financial awards.

To provide that PASS award funds may be used for programs or activities that support development of a dropout prevention, intervention, and reengagement system, including but not limited to the programs and activities that are listed in the bill.

To create the Pay for Actual Student Success Program (PASS), to invest in proven dropout prevention and intervention programs and provide an annual financial award to high schools that demonstrate improvement in dropout prevention indicators.

To remove the requirement that graduation coaches must work in the context of a comprehensive school guidance and counseling program as provided in current law. Clarifies that expenditures from the High School Completion Account may be used for dropout prevention and intervention programs identified in the bill and PASS Program awards.

House concurred with the Senate amendments.