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Bill > HB437
GA HB437
GA HB437State Board of Education; establish rules and regulations for local school system outreach efforts regarding ESOL program; require
summary
Introduced
02/12/2025
02/12/2025
In Committee
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2025-2026 Regular Session
Bill Summary
AN ACT To amend Part 3 of Article 6 of Chapter 2 of Title 20 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to educational programs under the "Quality Basic Education Act," so as to require the State Board of Education to establish rules and regulations for local school system outreach efforts regarding the English for speakers of other languages (ESOL) program; to require local school systems to engage in such community outreach efforts; to provide for standards for foreign language interpreters providing services to students in educational settings; to require local school systems to provide certain information to limited-English-proficient parents and guardians regarding their children; to provide for interpreter services; to provide for meetings of school representatives with limited-English-proficient parents and guardians regarding their children; to provide for related matters; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.
AI Summary
This bill amends Georgia's education law to enhance support and communication for students with limited English proficiency (LEP) and their families. The State Board of Education is required to establish comprehensive rules and regulations for local school systems' outreach efforts related to the English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) program. The bill mandates that local school systems provide detailed information to LEP parents and guardians in their native language, covering topics such as school registration, enrollment, disciplinary policies, program opportunities, and parent-teacher conferences. Additionally, the bill sets standards for foreign language interpreters working in educational settings, including requirements for language proficiency and familiarity with federal education laws like the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Local school systems must now provide clear information about interpretation services, including how parents can request an interpreter and their rights during school meetings. The bill also requires that meeting minutes document interpretation needs, the language used, and whether a qualified interpreter was provided. The overall goal is to improve communication, accessibility, and parental involvement for limited-English-proficient families in the Georgia school system.
Committee Categories
Education
Sponsors (6)
Chas Cannon (R)*,
Soo Hong (R)*,
Marvin Lim (D)*,
Karen Lupton (D)*,
Phil Olaleye (D)*,
Matt Reeves (R)*,
Last Action
House Second Readers (on 02/18/2025)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/70296 |
| BillText | https://www.legis.ga.gov/api/legislation/document/20252026/232319 |
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