The bill aims to enhance multilingual and multiliterate education in Washington through the establishment and expansion of dual language and tribal language education programs. It recognizes the benefits of such educational models for all students, particularly English learners and American Indian and Alaska Native students, and emphasizes the importance of honoring tribal sovereignty. The legislation mandates the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction to administer grant programs to support school districts and state-tribal education compact schools in establishing and expanding these programs, with a goal of funding at least 10 new dual language education programs annually starting from kindergarten by 2040.

Key provisions include the establishment of criteria for awarding grants, prioritizing schools in educational opportunity gaps, and requiring grant recipients to form advisory boards that include parents of English learners. The bill also amends existing laws to include the Washington state seal of biliteracy, which recognizes high school graduates proficient in English and one or more world languages, and mandates that school districts award this seal starting in the 2025-26 school year. Additionally, it requires collaboration among various educational boards to align standards for bilingual education and English language learner endorsements. The act will be null and void if specific funding is not provided by June 30, 2024.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 28A.300.575, 28A.180.080, 28A.300.574
Substitute Bill: 28A.150.010, 28A.300.574
Second Substitute: 28A.300.575, 28A.230.125, 28A.300.574
Third Substitute: 28A.300.575, 28A.230.125, 28A.300.574
Bill as Passed Legislature: 28A.300.575, 28A.230.125, 28A.300.574
Session Law: 28A.300.575, 28A.230.125, 28A.300.574