Schools; English language learners; requirements.
By repealing Sections 15-752, 15-753, 15-754, and 15-755 of the ARS and amending other related sections, SCR1019 aims to streamline and bolster the support for ELLs in Arizona’s educational framework. The bill places an emphasis on providing each English language learner access to high-quality education and research-based language programs. Schools are expected to adopt structured English immersion and alternative instruction models that are cost-effective and compliant with state regulations. This could significantly impact funding requests, instructional time allocated for language learning, and the resources available for ELL support in public schools.
SCR1019 is a concurrent resolution introduced in the Arizona Senate that relates to English language education for children in public schools. The bill proposes to repeal several sections of the Arizona Revised Statutes (ARS) that pertain to the education of English language learners (ELLs) and amend existing laws to enhance the identification and assessment of students who are not proficient in English. Central to the legislation is the clear establishment that new pupils' primary or home languages must be identified and assessed to determine their proficiency in English. Those students identified as ELLs are mandated to receive specialized education support to ensure they can achieve mastery in the English language.
Notable points of contention surrounding SCR1019 include concerns regarding the adequacy of resources allocated for ELL programs and the potential implications of the changes on existing educational frameworks. Some stakeholders fear that the repeal of earlier statutes may strip away certain protections and established support systems previously available to immigrant students. Additionally, the legal standing granted to parents or guardians for enforcement of educational quality for ELLs raises questions about implementation and accountability, which could become contentious in discussions about educational equity.