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HB 305

RELATING TO LAND RESTORATION.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Terez Amato and 9 co-sponsors

HB 305 mandates multilingual standardized assessments in Florida schools, ensuring equitable opportunities for English learners and students with disabilities by 2027-2028.

The committee(s) on WAL recommend(s) that the measure be deferred.
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Bill Summary · HB 305

Summary of HB 305: Statewide, Standardized Assessments

Bill Number: HB 305
Introduced: November 04, 2025
Current Status: Now in Education Administration Subcommittee
Primary Sponsor: Harris

Purpose and Intent

HB 305 aims to enhance the accessibility and inclusivity of statewide standardized assessments in Florida's public education system. The bill mandates the development of assessments in multiple languages to better serve English language learners and students with disabilities, ensuring that all students have equitable opportunities to demonstrate their academic abilities.

Key Provisions

  1. Development of Multilingual Assessments:

    • The Florida Department of Education (DOE) is required to create versions of statewide standardized assessments in the three most prevalent languages among English language learners by the 2027-2028 school year.
    • The DOE must establish criteria for when assessments in languages other than English are appropriate.

  2. Action Plan and Timetable:

    • The DOE is tasked with developing a timetable and action plan for the implementation of these multilingual assessments.

  3. Parental Rights:

    • Parents will have the authority to prohibit the use of assessments in languages other than English for their children.

  4. Accommodations for Students with Disabilities:

    • The bill outlines provisions for students with disabilities, ensuring that their assessment results can be waived if standardized assessments do not accurately measure their abilities, even with accommodations.
    • The State Board of Education will adopt rules for assessment accommodations based on recommendations from the commissioner.

  5. Coordinated Screening and Progress Monitoring:

    • Amendments to section 1008.25 of the Florida Statutes will require a standardized coordinated screening and progress monitoring system for Voluntary Prekindergarten Education Programs and public schools, focusing on early literacy and mathematics skills.

Who Would Be Affected?

  • Students: All public school students, including those in juvenile justice education programs and English language learners, will benefit from the proposed changes.
  • Parents: Parents will gain more control over the assessment process for their children, particularly regarding language preferences.
  • Educators: Teachers and administrators will need to adapt to new assessment tools and guidelines.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill has been referred to multiple committees, including the Education Administration Subcommittee, PreK-12 Budget Subcommittee, and Education & Employment Committee.
  • The legislative process will continue as the bill moves through these committees for further discussion and potential amendments.

Conclusion

HB 305 represents a significant step towards making Florida's educational assessment system more inclusive and equitable. By addressing the needs of English language learners and students with disabilities, the bill aims to ensure that all students can effectively demonstrate their academic progress and capabilities.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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