SCR 1026 Summary

• Repeals sections 15-752, 15-753, 15-754, and 15-755 of Arizona Revised Statutes relating to English language education program requirements.

• Requires public schools to identify primary or home language for all new pupils and assess English language proficiency of non-English speakers using assessments prescribed by the superintendent of public instruction.

• Establishes that English language learners must receive high-quality education, master the English language, and have access to research-based language programs, with parents granted legal standing to sue for enforcement and recover attorney fees and compensatory damages.

• Requires the state board of education to adopt research-based and evidence-based models of structured English immersion with minimum English language development hours (120 minutes daily for K-5 grades, 100 minutes for grades 6-12) and alternative instruction models based on evidence and research.

• Authorizes dual-language immersion programs for native and nonnative English speakers and submits this measure to voters at the next general election for approval.