Relating to a requirement that any information regarding state-administered assessment instruments provided by a school district or public school to a student's parent be printed in both English and Spanish.
Impact
If enacted, HB1699 would amend the Education Code, specifically adding Section 39.038. The application of this bill starting from the 2013-2014 school year indicates a significant shift towards more inclusive practices in schools, ensuring that non-English speaking parents receive the same level of information about educational assessments as their English-speaking counterparts. This requirement aims to enhance parent involvement and foster a better understanding of the assessments being administered to students.
Summary
House Bill 1699 mandates that any information regarding state-administered assessment instruments provided by school districts or public schools to a student's parents must be printed in both English and Spanish. This initiative recognizes the linguistic diversity of Texas and aims to ensure that all parents, irrespective of their primary language, have access to crucial educational information concerning their children. The bill reflects a growing effort to promote equality in education and parental engagement within the educational system by overcoming language barriers.
Sentiment
The general sentiment around HB1699 appears to be supportive among educational advocates and organizations focused on bilingual education. Stakeholders believe that providing assessment information in both languages will facilitate better communication between schools and parents, thereby contributing positively to student achievement. However, there may be concerns regarding the implementation costs and the feasibility of producing dual-language materials within school districts already facing budget constraints.
Contention
While the bill seeks to promote inclusivity and accessibility, discussions around the potential challenges of practicality and costs of translating materials into Spanish could arise. Some critics might argue that this added requirement places an additional burden on schools that are already struggling with various financial and logistical issues. Additionally, concerns about the quality of translations and ensuring that all vital information is accurately conveyed could also be points of contention.
Relating to a study by the Texas Education Agency on the administration of assessment instruments in Spanish to certain public school students in grades six through 12.
Relating to the assessment of public school students and the provision of accelerated instruction to students who fail to achieve satisfactory performance on certain assessment instruments.
Relating to accelerated and supplemental instruction provided to public school students who fail to achieve satisfactory performance on certain assessment instruments and access to criminal history record information for certain tutors providing that instruction.
Relating to a study by the Texas Education Agency on the administration of assessment instruments in Spanish to certain public school students in grades six through eight.