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 the students' home or heritage language as the primary medium of instruction, while also incorporating English when there is a need to improve English language proficiency. Additionally, the bill emphasizes the importance of assessing language proficiency in both the home or heritage language and English until proficiency is achieved.

Other provisions in the bill include prioritizing educational support for linguistically and culturally different students, particularly in grades kindergarten through three, and ensuring that programs emphasize the history and cultures associated with the students' home or heritage language. The bill also mandates the establishment of a parent advisory committee to assist in the program's development and requires annual parental notification prior to program placement. Overall, the amendments aim to create a more inclusive and effective bilingual education framework that respects and utilizes students' linguistic backgrounds.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 22-23-6