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Bill

A 4516

Requires school districts to establish a language assistance program for limited English proficient parents of students

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Brian Cunningham

Bill A 4516 requires school districts to create language assistance programs for limited English proficient parents, enhancing their engagement in their children's education.

PRINT NUMBER 4516A
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Bill Summary · A 4516

Summary of Bill A 4516

Bill Number: A 4516
Title: Requires school districts to establish a language assistance program for limited English proficient parents of students
Status: PRINT NUMBER 4516A
Introduced: February 04, 2025
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill A 4516 aims to enhance communication between school districts and parents who have limited English proficiency (LEP). The primary intent is to ensure that these parents can effectively engage with their children's education by providing necessary language assistance services. This initiative seeks to promote inclusivity and support the educational success of students from diverse linguistic backgrounds.

Key Provisions

  • Establishment of Language Assistance Programs:
    School districts will be required to create and implement language assistance programs specifically designed for LEP parents. These programs will facilitate access to information regarding school policies, academic resources, and other essential communications.

  • Resources and Support:
    The bill mandates that school districts provide translation and interpretation services to assist LEP parents in understanding school-related documents and participating in meetings, conferences, and other school events.

  • Training for Staff:
    School districts will be encouraged to train staff members on cultural competency and effective communication strategies to better serve LEP families.

  • Evaluation and Reporting:
    The bill may include provisions for the evaluation of the effectiveness of these language assistance programs, requiring districts to report on their implementation and outcomes.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Limited English Proficient Parents:
    The primary beneficiaries of this bill are parents who face language barriers, enabling them to engage more fully in their children's education.

  • School Districts:
    School districts will be responsible for developing and maintaining these language assistance programs, which may require additional resources and training.

  • Students:
    Students from LEP families may experience improved educational outcomes as their parents become more involved in their schooling.

Procedural Timeline

  • February 04, 2025: Bill A 4516 was introduced and referred to the Education Committee.
  • May 23, 2025: The bill was amended and recommitted to the Education Committee, followed by the printing of version 4516A.

Related Bills

Bill A 4516 is related to several prior-session bills, including:
- S 8634
- S 1697
- S 635
- S 463
- A 6742
- S 894 (companion bill)

These related bills may share similar objectives or provisions aimed at supporting LEP families within the educational system.

Conclusion

Bill A 4516 represents a significant step towards fostering an inclusive educational environment for families with limited English proficiency. By requiring school districts to establish language assistance programs, the bill seeks to empower parents and enhance their involvement in their children's education, ultimately contributing to better academic outcomes for students.

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

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