SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6483

BYSenators Rinehart, Bailey, Williams, Bender, Murray, Talmadge, Moore, Rasmussen, Niemi and Warnke

Requiring the superintendent of public instruction to request enhanced funding for school districts in which twenty or more languages are spoken.

Senate Committee on Education

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 2, 1990

Senate Staff:Susan Mosborg (786-7439)

AS OF FEBRUARY 2, 1990

BACKGROUND:

The Transitional Bilingual Instruction Program provides funds for school districts to teach limited-English and non-English speaking students who cannot get along in the regular classroom without special assistance, with mastery of English the clear objective.  Currently, districts receive funds based on their number of eligible students.  It is suggested that districts whose bilingual students speak many different languages and dialects have increased need for staffing, instructional materials, and other assistance.

SUMMARY:

In its biennial budget request for bilingual instruction programs, the Superintendent of Public Instruction must request enhanced funding for school districts in which 20 or more native languages or dialects are spoken by students.

The enhanced funding shall be provided as funds are available.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      requested