Hawaii 2023 Regular Session

Hawaii House Bill HR61

Introduced
3/9/23  
Refer
3/15/23  
Report Pass
3/30/23  

Caption

Urging The Department Of Education To Prioritize Funding For The English Learner Program In Public Schools To Address The Increasing Population Of English Learner Students.

Impact

The discussion surrounding HR61 reveals a growing concern over the educational achievements of English learners in Hawaii. Reports indicate a worrying decline in the percentage of these students on track to gain language proficiency, dropping from 41% in 2018 to just 28% in 2021-2022. By urging for more funding, HR61 seeks to address these challenges, ensuring that the English Learner Program has the necessary resources to effectively support these students and combat the upward trend of insufficient educational outcomes. The recommendation aligns with federal mandates under the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which require educational institutions to provide equitable access to resources for all students.

Summary

House Bill HR61 urges the Department of Education in Hawaii to prioritize funding for the English Learner Program in public schools. This bill comes in response to a significant increase in the population of English learner students within the state. The English Learner Program aims to provide services that help students with limited English proficiency attain a higher level of English language skills, thereby ensuring they can meet the same academic standards as their peers. The program is designed to advance educational opportunities and promote academic success among these students, which is crucial in a diverse educational landscape.

Contention

The potential points of contention surrounding HR61 may revolve around budget allocations and the prioritization of resources within the Department of Education. There could be debates regarding whether increased funding for the English Learner Program would detract from funding in other critical areas within public education. Stakeholders might express differing opinions on the effectiveness of current programs versus the urgency of addressing funding disparities. Additionally, there could be discussions about the broader implications of such funding on the educational infrastructure and the responsibilities of the state toward all student demographics.

Companion Bills

HI HCR59

Same As Urging The Department Of Education To Prioritize Funding For The English Learner Program In Public Schools To Address The Increasing Population Of English Learner Students.

Previously Filed As

HI SCR38

Urging The Department Of Education To Implement A Hawaiian Language Requirement As Part Of The High School Graduation Requirements, Consistent With Existing English Graduation Requirements

HI SR26

Urging The Department Of Education To Implement A Hawaiian Language Requirement As Part Of The High School Graduation Requirements, Consistent With Existing English Graduation Requirements

HI HCR39

Urging The Department Of Education To Increase Access To Arts And Cultural Instruction In Public Schools.

HI HR28

Urging The Department Of Education To Increase Access To Arts And Cultural Instruction In Public Schools.

HI SCR206

Urging The Department Of Education To Increase Access To Arts And Cultural Instruction In Public Schools.

HI HCR127

Urging The Department Of Education To Require All Public Schools And Charter Schools That Serve Meals To Offer Plant-based Meal Options Prioritizing Ingredients From Locally Sourced And Locally Farmed Products.

HI HR108

Urging The Department Of Education To Require All Public Schools And Charter Schools That Serve Meals To Offer Plant-based Meal Options Prioritizing Ingredients From Locally Sourced And Locally Farmed Products.

HI SCR78

Urging The Department Of Education To Require All Public Schools And Charter Schools That Serve Meals To Offer Plant-based Meal Options Prioritizing Ingredients From Locally Sourced And Locally Farmed Products.

HI SR182

Urging The Department Of Education To Increase Access To Arts And Cultural Instruction In Public Schools.

HI SR65

Urging The Department Of Education To Require All Public Schools And Charter Schools That Serve Meals To Offer Plant-based Meal Options Prioritizing Ingredients From Locally Sourced And Locally Farmed Products.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.