SB 344 – This act allows the Governor to establish the "P-20 Council" as a private-not-for profit corporation on behalf of the state. The purpose of the P-20 Council will be to create a more efficient and effective education system to more adequately prepare students for entering the workforce and will be reflected in the articles of incorporation and bylaws. The Council's board of directors will consist of thirteen members, including the Director of the Department of Economic Development, the Commissioner of Higher Education, the Chairperson of the Coordinating Board for Higher Education, the President of the State Board of Education, the Chairperson of the Coordinating Board of Early Childhood, and the Commissioner of Education as well as seven members appointed by the Governor as described in the act. The Council may receive and borrow money, enter into contracts, and spend money for activities appropriate to its purpose. Duties of the Council may include: studying the potential for a state-coordinated economic and educational policy; determining where obstacles make state support of certain programs difficult; creating programs; and exploring ways to better align academic content. The Council must submit an annual report to the Governor and General Assembly containing information about its operations. Any debts incurred by the Council will not be considered debt of the state. The Council is subject to an annual audit by the State Auditor and the Council must pay for the cost. This act allows the Department of Economic Development, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, and the Department of Higher Education to contract with the Council for activities described in the act. This act repeals the statute requiring the Commissioner of Higher Education, the Chair of the Coordinating Board for Higher Education, the Commissioner of Education, the President of the State Board of Education, and the Director of the Department of Economic Development to meet and discuss ways to create a more efficient and effective education system. This act is identical to SB 1221 (2008) and provisions contained in HCS#2/SS/SB 291 (2009). MICHAEL RUFF