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INDIANAPOLIS – Hoosier students could soon be rewarded based on their ability to speak multiple languages.
The Senate Education and Career Development Committee heard discussion Wednesday concerning Senate Bill 267, which would allow high school students to be recognized by the state for a proficiency in two or more languages.
The bill also would require schools to test students who have experience in more than one language and provided the passing students with an opportunity to become bilingually certified.
“The fact that they are bilingual means that they can have even more success in terms of finding careers, there are businesses that are looking for folks who have that ability,” said John Barnes, legislative affairs director for the Indiana Department of Education.
The legislation will allow students who pass the testing to receive a certificate that includes a seal of recognition, which would become a part of those students’ transcripts.
The bill passed unanimously and will now head to the full Senate for consideration.
Levi Lotz is a reporter for TheStatehouseFile.com, a news website powered by Franklin College journalism students.
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