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. By the 2027-2028 school year, the Department of Education is required to develop versions of each statewide standardized assessment and the written portions of the screening system in the three most prevalent languages among English language learners in Florida. The department must also create a timetable and action plan for the implementation of these assessments and establish criteria for their use in languages other than English. Additionally, parents will have the authority to prohibit their children from being assessed in a language other than English.

The bill also includes amendments to existing provisions regarding students with disabilities and assessment accommodations. It specifies that if a student's Individual Education Plan (IEP) indicates that standardized assessments cannot accurately measure their abilities, the assessment results may be waived for course grades and high school diplomas. The language surrounding the waiver has been updated to reflect that it "must" be designated on the student's transcript, rather than "shall." Furthermore, the bill emphasizes the importance of informing parents about instructional accommodations that may not be permitted during standardized assessments, ensuring they provide consent for such accommodations. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
S 342 Filed: 1008.22, 1008.25