Senator Stevenson presents SB 308 to enhance Utah's dual language immersion program

The House Education Committee meeting on March 4, 2025, highlighted significant developments regarding Utah's Dual Language Immersion (DLI) program, which currently serves 50,000 students across 330 schools. Senate Bill 308, presented by former Senator Howard Stevenson, aims to enhance the program's structure and ensure its continued success.

The DLI program, established in 2008, has gained national recognition for its quality, attracting interest from 42 states and over 22 countries. Students enrolled in the program learn languages such as Spanish, Mandarin, and French, with the promise of earning college credits towards a minor in their chosen language upon passing advanced placement tests.

Senate Bill 308 seeks to solidify commitments made to students and their families by introducing four key provisions. First, it mandates that students who pass the advanced placement language test can take upper-level concurrent enrollment courses that count towards their major or minor. Second, it requires these courses to be taught by qualified teachers at the students' high schools, ensuring that credits are transferable. Third, if a university cannot provide a qualified instructor, local education agencies (LEAs) can partner with other state institutions to offer the necessary courses. Lastly, the bill clarifies that courses should primarily be taught in person, with exceptions for synchronous online instruction when necessary.

The committee members expressed support for the bill, recognizing its importance in maintaining the integrity of the DLI program and ensuring that students have access to quality education. The discussions underscored the commitment to providing robust language education, which not only benefits students academically but also prepares them for a globalized world.

As the committee moves forward, the implications of Senate Bill 308 could significantly impact the educational landscape in Utah, reinforcing the state's dedication to bilingual education and the future success of its students.