The bill S. 423 aims to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws by adding Section 59-18-130, which establishes that students identified as English Language Learners (ELL) are entitled to take certain assessments in their native language. Specifically, these students may have directions read to them in their native language for math assessments, receive oral translations for science and social studies assessments, and take language arts assessments in their native language instead of the standard English Language Arts (ELA) assessments. Furthermore, ELL students will not be required to take the ELA assessments mandated under the Education Accountability Act.

Additionally, the bill amends Section 1-1-698 to ensure that existing laws do not prohibit educational instruction in languages other than English, particularly for the purpose of helping students become proficient in English or in another language. The provisions of this act are set to take effect starting the 2026-2027 school year, pending approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
03/05/2025: 59-18-130, 1-1-698
Latest Version: 59-18-130, 1-1-698