Bill > A04516

This bill requires school districts with more than 5% non-English speaking residents to establish a comprehensive language assistance program for parents who are limited English proficient (LEP), ensuring they can effectively communicate with school personnel. The program must include providing school forms and materials in the parent's primary language, offering language assistance for parent-teacher interactions, and facilitating parent attendance at school-sponsored events. School districts must keep detailed records and submit annual reports to the state commissioner, documenting the number of LEP parents receiving assistance, LEP households, complaints filed, and bilingual personnel used. The bill defines "primary language" as one of the five most common languages in the district (excluding English) and "limited English proficient parents" as those unable to communicate effectively in English with school staff. Districts are permitted to jointly establish these language assistance programs, and the commissioner is tasked with creating rules and regulations for implementation, including methods for assessing language needs and establishing a complaint procedure. The provisions will take effect 180 days after becoming law, aiming to improve communication and engagement between schools and families with language barriers.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A4516