Maryland 2023 Regular Session

Maryland Senate Bill SB882

Introduced
2/9/23  

Caption

Education - English Learners and Dual Language Immersion Programs - Funding and Establishment (Multilingualism Is an Asset Act)

Impact

The bill mandates that county education boards receive state funding aimed specifically at English learner education. Under this act, schools with approved dual language immersion programs may benefit from increased per pupil funding. The legislation requires annual reporting from counties on how funds are utilized to support these programs, fostering accountability and transparency in the allocation of educational resources. This could lead to improved educational outcomes for students, particularly those from non-English speaking backgrounds.

Summary

Senate Bill 882, titled the 'Multilingualism Is an Asset Act', focuses on enhancing educational opportunities for English learners by establishing a Dual Language Immersion Program. This program is designed to develop, fund, implement, and sustain research-based two-way immersion initiatives in schools statewide. The goal is to ensure equitable access to high-quality bilingual education, which is especially significant in a multicultural society where language skills are vital for student success and community integration.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB882 include concerns about the adequacy of resources and training necessary to implement effective dual language programs. Critics may argue that without sufficient funding and professional development for educators, the goals of the bill might not be fully realized. Supporters, however, assert that the implementation of such programs is critical for closing achievement gaps and providing English learners with the support they need to thrive academically and socially.

Companion Bills

MD HB1098

Crossfiled Education - English Learners and Dual Language Immersion Programs - Funding and Establishment (Multilingualism Is an Asset Act)

Previously Filed As

MD HB1098

Education - English Learners and Dual Language Immersion Programs - Funding and Establishment (Multilingualism Is an Asset Act)

MD AB865

Dual language immersion programs: instructional materials: grants.

MD HCR2021

Schools; English language learners; requirements

MD HCR2030

Schools; English language learners; requirements

MD SCR1026

Schools; English language learners; requirements.

MD HCR2026

Schools; English language learners; requirements

MD SCR1019

Schools; English language learners; requirements.

MD SCR1037

Schools; English language learners; requirements

MD SCR1036

Schools; English language learners; requirements

MD SB156

Public schools; English language learners.

Similar Bills

CA ACA1

Public finance.

CA ACA19

State finance: budget: unemployment insurance debt repayment.

US HB1832

Special Immigrant Visas for Afghan Fulbright Scholars Act of 2023

WY HB0070

Local government distributions.

WY SF0060

Sales tax distribution rates.

WY HB0042

Local government distributions.

IA HSB224

A bill for an act relating to property taxation for commercial child care centers and facilities and including effective date, applicability, and retroactive applicability provisions.(See HF 668.)

IA HF668

A bill for an act relating to property taxation for commercial child care centers and facilities and including effective date, applicability, and retroactive applicability provisions.(Formerly HSB 224.)