In a historic move today, the CT State Board of Education unanimously approved a transformative "bill of rights" for non-English speaking parents, ensuring their essential entitlements in public education. Originating from the 2023 legislative session, this groundbreaking legislation, now part of the omnibus education legislation, House Bill 6762, aims to bridge communication gaps and eliminate barriers families face, regardless of immigration status or language proficiency.

The newly adopted bill of rights, a testament to last year's overwhelming support, addresses the poignant struggles of advocates, predominantly Spanish-speaking parents. Many shared heart-wrenching stories of their challenges in communicating with school officials and staying informed about their children's education. This legislation resounds to those narratives, aiming to empower parents and promote inclusivity within the education system.

The rights outlined in the bill cover a spectrum of crucial aspects, including the right for students to enroll in public schools regardless of immigration status, translation services during critical interactions, participation in bilingual education programs, and access to grade-level programming. Parents will receive progress reports and important documents in their native language, ensuring they are actively involved in their child's educational journey.

The State's Department of Education plans to facilitate the implementation of these rights by providing translated documents to districts, with parents slated to receive copies in their native languages starting in July. Additionally, the rights will be readily available online on local boards of education websites, promoting accessibility.

Irene Parisi, the chief academic officer representing the state's Department of Education, affirmed the commitment to this cause, stating that the state will continue to ensure equitable and inclusive education for all students and their families. This groundbreaking initiative signals a step forward in fostering a more accessible and supportive educational environment for non-English speaking parents, ultimately contributing to the broader goal of an inclusive and diverse education system.