SB 17-123 Summary

• Creates a high school diploma endorsement in biliteracy for students who demonstrate proficiency in English and one or more world languages (including American Sign Language).

• Students must achieve proficiency in English by completing required English Language Arts courses with at least a 3.0 GPA and scoring proficiently on the college entrance exam, Advanced Placement test (score 3+), or International Baccalaureate test (score 4+).

• Students must demonstrate proficiency in a world language through passing an Advanced Placement test (score 3+), completing a four-year language course with at least 3.0 GPA, or achieving a passing score on a nationally recognized test.

• For languages without available Advanced Placement tests, the Colorado Department of Education may identify comparable summative tests or allow local education providers to create alternative tests or accept a portfolio of evidence, subject to department approval.

• Local education providers that create tests or accept evidence portfolios must provide copies to the Department of Education for sharing with other districts.