SPRINGFIELD — To expand dual language programs in grade schools, State Senator Graciela Guzmán has developed a measure to incentivize more schools across the state to adopt the program, at little to no cost to their respective districts.

“I am lucky enough to have multiple schools in my district with dual language instruction, and when I have toured there, there is always an excited, almost magical energy that the kids and teachers bring to their classes,” said Guzmán (D-Chicago). “From the art and projects they show off featuring multiple languages, to their rapid-fire conversations jumping between them, it is impressive and awe-inspiring that at such an early age, these young people are learning so much about language and culture. These programs are vital to the curiosity of our children, and for encouraging open-mindedness toward other cultures, and this measure will further incentivize their investment across all corners of the state.”

Recognizing the importance of dual language education for young people, the Illinois Advisory Council for Bilingual Education – formed in 2023 – began to research how to incentivize, improve and expand dual language instruction in schools. After extensive stakeholder engagement, expert consultation, and data collection, the council released a report to the General Assembly in October of 2024 with their recommendations. Their proposals were divided into three buckets – those with high costs to implement, low costs, and those with no prospective cost.

House Bill 3026, led in the House by Representative Abdelnasser Rashid, would adopt statewide guidance for dual language instruction to ensure consistency and quality across the state, develop a recruitment and retention platform to attract potential bilingual educators, and expand the Seal of Biliteracy recognition pathways to promote bilingualism and enhance students’ future opportunities. It would also enhance the Illinois State Board of Education equity continuum by integrating dual language programming into the broader framework of student learning, as well as including the definition of dual language and teaching standards for dual language education in the administrative rules. These changes aim to make dual language instruction more common and consistent throughout the state. 

“As someone who grew up in a multilingual household, I can tell you firsthand that learning another language is an incredibly enriching experience,” said State Representative Abdelnasser Rashid, the House sponsor of the measure. “This bill doesn’t just expand dual language programs, it will improve academic achievement, enhance cultural preservation, and help our young people become more well-rounded individuals with a better understanding of themselves and the world.”

House Bill 3026 passed the Senate on Thursday. It now goes to the governor’s desk.