State Senator Kristen Arrington (D-Kissimmee) and State Representative Rita Harris (D-Orlando) have introduced Senate Bill 260 and House Bill 159 to enhance language accessibility for students taking statewide standardized assessments.

If passed, SB 260/HB 159 would permit English Language Learners to take statewide, standardized assessments in their primary language, leading to more equitable access in public schools. By removing language as a barrier to success, this legislation strives to provide a more accurate representation of ELL students’ knowledge and abilities.

“It is an honor to serve as the Senate sponsor for this bill alongside Representative Harris. Standardized tests are tools that help track the academic progress and success for our students. It is important that these tests accurately reflect the educational outcomes of all our students, including those who have English as a second language. Our students deserve equitable access to standardized tests, so they can perform at their very best. The success of our students is vital to our community, and I am proud to support this bill,” said Senator Arrington.

According to the latest U.S. Census, approximately 30% of Florida families speak a language other than English at home, with Spanish being the most commonly spoken language.

“With this bill, we have an opportunity to make Florida’s public schools more accessible to students with a native language other than English. Language proficiency is not a reflection of these student’s intelligence, and we can send that message with this bill. Instead, the state can offer pathways of success for each individual student, giving them the option to take standardized tests in the language they’re most comfortable with,” added Representative Harris.

Proponents of SB 260/HB 159 applaud the bill’s promotion of access for students currently learning the English language. Through his legislation, public schools will provide equitable opportunities for students of all cultural and linguistic backgrounds. “These tools are essential for fostering an effective learning environment. Ensuring that educators have access to resources that allow them to accurately assess students’ content knowledge, irrespective of language barriers, is key to supporting the academic success of every student,” said Susanne Pena, President of the Florida Association for Bilingual Education.

The League of United Latin American Citizens also offered the following statement: “LULAC Florida recognizes the importance of language access for 350,000+ students learning English across our state. Educational policies should support their abilities to complete academic work, including the use of languages other than English.”

If passed, SB 260/HB 159 would take effect for the 2027-2028 school year. Florida’s legislative session is set to begin on March 4th, 2025.