The bill amends Section 22-23-6 of the New Mexico Statutes to enhance the requirements for bilingual multicultural education programs to qualify for state financial support. Notably, it replaces the previous requirement for programs to use two languages as mediums of instruction with a new mandate that programs must use students' home or heritage language as the primary medium of instruction, while also incorporating English when there is a need to improve students' English proficiency. This change emphasizes the importance of students' cultural and linguistic backgrounds in their education.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that teachers involved in these programs must administer language proficiency assessments in both English and the home or heritage language until proficiency is achieved. The legislation also maintains existing requirements, such as the establishment of a parent advisory committee and the necessity for annual parental notification regarding program placement. Overall, the bill aims to create a more inclusive and effective bilingual education framework that prioritizes the linguistic needs of culturally diverse students.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 22-23-6