Pupil instruction: English language education.
The bill mandates local educational agencies, such as school districts and charter schools, to gather and submit feedback from stakeholders on the effectiveness of existing language acquisition programs annually. This feedback will then be reported to the State Department of Education, with a summary provided to the Legislature by March 1 each year, starting from 2024. This mechanism aims to ensure transparency and accountability in how educational agencies handle English language education, potentially leading to improved instructional methods and resources for English learners.
Assembly Bill 848, introduced by Assembly Member Alvarez, focuses on enhancing pupil instruction related to English language education. It builds upon the California Education for a Global Economy Initiative, known as Proposition 58, which mandates that school districts and educational bodies must seek input from stakeholders regarding effective methods for language acquisition. This ensures all pupils, regardless of their linguistic background, are equipped with the necessary skills to become proficient in English and meet academic standards.
One notable aspect of AB 848 is the provision that it imposes additional duties on local educational agencies, which may attract opposition due to the concerns regarding increased administrative burdens and costs. In the event that the Commission on State Mandates identifies state-mandated costs, the bill includes provisions for reimbursement to these agencies, thereby attempting to balance the imposition of new requirements with financial support.
AB 848 is designed as a temporary legislative measure, set to repeal its provisions on January 1, 2028, unless renewed or amended. This sunset clause indicates an intention to assess the effectiveness of its implementation and to gather data over several years regarding the impact of stakeholder input on language acquisition programs.