Bill > SB0077

This bill amends existing Utah law to enhance dual language immersion programs and concurrent enrollment courses for accelerated foreign language students. It requires the state board to report to the Public Education Appropriations Subcommittee on the cost of expanding dual language immersion proficiency assessments to cover grades 3 through 12 in speaking, listening, reading, and writing, with this report due before the subcommittee's October 2026 meeting. The bill also updates the definition of a "blended learning delivery model" to include synchronous online learning, introduces definitions for "partner language" and the "Program" (Utah Language Bridge Program), and establishes detailed qualifications for "qualified instructors" who teach these concurrent enrollment courses, emphasizing advanced language proficiency and relevant academic credentials over mere years of experience. Furthermore, it mandates that state universities ensure qualified instructors teach upper-division courses and outlines procedures for local education agencies (LEAs) to partner with institutions outside their service area if a qualified instructor cannot be provided by April 1st annually. The bill also ensures these upper-division courses count towards foreign language degrees and mandates annual legislative appropriations for these foreign language concurrent enrollment courses, increasing them proportionally to the growth in weighted pupil units. This bill takes effect on July 1, 2026.

Education

https://le.utah.gov/~2026/bills/static/SB0077.html