The BEST Act would let the U.S. Department of Education award competitive grants to states to create or improve Seal of Biliteracy programs and early language programs leading to a seal. Students would need to show speaking and writing proficiency in English and another language; states could also assess reading and listening. Programs must allow certain Native American language proficiency to count in place of English proficiency. States would plan for access by English learners, students with disabilities, and Native American language learners, among others. A seal or other recognition would appear on a student’s diploma or official transcript.
A student who learned a second language outside school could apply to their state to take part. Students would not be charged a fee for providing the required application information. Grant funds could help pay for testing for low-income students and provide language educator training and public outreach.
The bill authorizes $10 million for each fiscal year from 2025 through 2029. This is authorization for appropriations, not a statement that the funds have been provided. States must return unspent grant funds within six months after a grant ends.
The bill’s findings say that recognizing language skills can encourage students, help schools and employers recognize those skills, and support students’ educational and employment opportunities. The findings also cite language learning’s potential value to the economy and national security.
No publicly available information.