FL S0458

Creates the Florida English Language Learner Advisory Council as an advisory body to the Department of Education to provide recommendations for enhancing education of English language learners through data analysis and identifying improvement areas.

Establishes council composition of 35+ voting members including: chairs of the Florida Hispanic, Black, and Jewish Legislative Caucuses; 30 public members appointed by the Governor with specific expertise in ESOL, bilingual education, teacher preparation, and dual language programs; one Florida Education Association member appointed by the President of the Senate; one school superintendent appointed by the Speaker of the House; and one dual language charter school principal appointed by the Commissioner of Education.

Requires the council to hold its first meeting by October 1, 2020, and meet at least quarterly thereafter using Robert's Rules of Order; members serve 4-year terms (with initial staggered 2-year terms) without compensation but may receive per diem and travel reimbursement.

Mandates the council identify three pressing English language learner issues annually related to accountability policies, state law changes, teacher preparation standards, parental engagement, funding, university system resources, and other matters identified by members.

Requires the council to submit annual written reports by November 1, 2021, and thereafter to the Governor, Legislature, State Board of Education chair, Board of Governors chair, and Commissioner of Education with recommendations on identified issues; Department of Education must provide staff support and maintain a webpage with council materials.