This bill amends sections 1008.22 and 1008.25 of the Florida Statutes to enhance the accessibility of statewide standardized assessments and the coordinated screening and progress monitoring system for English language learners. It mandates the Department of Education to develop versions of these assessments in the three most prevalent languages represented in the English language learner population by the 2027-2028 school year. Additionally, the department is required to create a timetable and action plan for the implementation of these assessments and establish criteria for their use in languages other than English. Parents will have the authority to prohibit their children from being assessed in a language other than English.

Furthermore, the bill includes provisions for students with disabilities, ensuring that their assessment results can be waived if the assessments do not accurately measure their abilities, with the waiver being noted on their transcripts. The language of the bill also emphasizes the need for instructional accommodations in the classroom and requires parental consent for accommodations that are not permitted during standardized assessments. The effective date for this act is set for July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
H 305 Filed: 1008.22, 1008.25