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Board votes to open Structured English Immersion endorsement framework for limited revision to align with federal directive
Summary
The State Board unanimously voted to open revisions to the Structured English Immersion (SEI) endorsement course frameworks; an amended motion requires the expert working group to first define contested terms and limit recommendations to technical alignment needed to comply with the federal executive order while preserving pedagogical language.
The board voted to open the Structured English Immersion (SEI) endorsement course frameworks for revision and approved amended language limiting the working group—9s charge. Arizona Department of Education deputy associate superintendent Adela Santa Cruz presented the formal request, citing a federal executive order and a subsequent Department of Education communication that AD says make alignment necessary to avoid jeopardizing federal funding for Arizona programs.
AD proposed convening a diverse working group (goal: 20+ members) including elementary and secondary teachers, administrators, SEI providers, higher education representatives, county education superintendents, parent representatives and tribal and rural stakeholders. AD said it would solicit nominations, seek county representation across Arizona—9s 15 counties, and convene the working group beginning in February, with a target draft framework by September 2026 for board consideration.
Board safeguards and amended motion: Multiple members raised concerns about speed, culture and pedagogy. Dr. Cruz Rivera offered and the board approved an amendment requiring the expert working group to first establish clear definitions for disputed terms (e.g., "DEI") and to limit any recommendations to technical alignment necessary to comply with the executive order while preserving essential pedagogical language that supports high-quality instruction and workforce readiness. The motion passed unanimously.
Why it matters: The SEI endorsement framework governs preparation of teachers and administrators who instruct English learners. AD said about $866 million in federal funding could be at risk if federal compliance is not addressed; board members balanced fiduciary concerns with calls for deliberative, transparent review and suggested including former SEI students and classroom practitioners in the stakeholder group.
Next steps: AD will release a call for nominations in January, convene the working group in February, provide progress updates to the board at least every other month, and aim to present a draft in September 2026. Any formal rule or standards changes would follow the board—9s rulemaking timeline.
