Utilizing this Negotiated Rule Making (NRM) approach, DCYF’s Licensing Division (LD) has begun the process of creating new licensing WAC for residential private schools (RPS). This NRM project is associated with the Senate Bill 5515, along with the mission, vision, values, and guiding principles of DCYF.
What is Negotiated Rule Making?
Negotiated Rule Making (NRM) is a way to develop rules by seeking consensus from delegates representing groupings of similar parties impacted by the rule. Utilizing the NRM approach to rule making has several benefits, such as:
- Providing greater public access to rulemaking
- Creating more culturally and developmentally appropriate rules
- A better understanding of rule intent and increased compliance with rules
Legislative Update
After completion of the NRM discussion sessions, SB5506 was brought forth and signed into law on May 13, 2025. With the passing of the bill, the licensing process of RPS programs has been extended out one year. This additional year will allow the state board of education more time to make a determination as to whether some RPS have accreditation standards that are comparable to the WAC rules agreed upon during the NRM, which would make them exempt from having to be licensed.
RPS WAC review update as a result of the new legislation:
- WAC draft will be submitted through form CR-102 for public comment by Oct. 22, 2025.
- If objections are made, a public hearing will be set.
- All of this process will be completed, and the WAC will be approved and live by July 1, 2026.
Residential Private School Pilot
DCYF conducted a Residential Private Schools Pilot Licensing Process (RPS) from Oct. 15, 2024, through April 2025 to refine the rules, policies, and procedures that will be used in licensing and monitoring these programs. The data from the pilot will be used to help guide the training for the RPS programs and DCYF staff. The training will be available prior to the licensing rules going into effect on July 1, 2026.
Project Timeline
- August 2023-Dec. 30, 2023 – Research and collaborative planning
- Jan. 1, 2024 – Residential Private School NRM project kicks off
- January 2024 to December 2026 – Rule drafting, rulemaking, rule filing, and public comment
- January 2025 to April 2026 – Creation of licensing structure, process, policies/procedures, forms, and IT development.
- April/May 2026 – Provider and DCYF Training
- July 2026 - Go Live
Ways to Engage
To accommodate individual participant schedules, commitment ability, level of investment, etc., folks can participate in the NRM project by:
- Staying connected through the RPS NRM webpage and provide feedback during the public comment process
- Contacting David Cherrington to discuss any issues or concerns you may have
If you have questions and/or need additional information regarding the RPS NRM project, email david.cherrington@dcyf.wa.gov.