Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Ell Accommodations topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Committee approves bill to codify English‑learner testing accommodations
Summary
HB 30 would codify in statute the language-assistance accommodations English learners receive in the classroom so those supports are available during state assessments; sponsor and an educator-witness argued the change preserves assessment integrity and consistency across districts.
The committee advanced House Bill 30, which would allow English learners who receive language assistance services during the school year to receive the same accommodations when taking state assessments such as TCAP. Melanie Tercea Allen, an educator and former English learner, told the committee that without those supports “the results wouldn't be an accurate measure of our actual knowledge,” and urged codification to ensure uniform implementation across districts.
Representative Clemens, the bill sponsor, said the provision merely codifies existing Department of Education guidance and does not override existing federal special-education protections. Committee members asked logistical questions (testing locations, distractions, maintaining assessment integrity); the bill moved out to calendar and rules on a unanimous voice vote (17–0 reported).
