File: IHBE BILINGUAL INSTRUCTION

As required by law, the Agawam School Committee will annually prior to March 1 determine the number of school-age children of limited English-speaking ability residing in the city. Whenever there are more than 20 such children of one language group (excluding children in parochial schools) the school committee will provide a program in transitional bilingual education.

Any child whose primary language is other than English and who has difficulty performing ordinary class work in English may participate in these classes. The classes will consist of students of approximately the same age and level of educational attainment. Classes may also be offered in preschool and summer school programs.

Within 10 days after a student's enrollment in the transitional bilingual educational program, the student's parents or guardian will be provided with, in both English and their native language, the following information:

I. A clear statement of the purpose, method, and content of the transitional bilingual education program.

2. A statement of parental rights, which include:

a. visits to the transitional bilingual classes

b. conferences with school personnel

c. right to withdraw the student at any time upon written notification to the school authorities

The offering of this program makes it necessary to provide sufficient numbers of bilingual teachers and aides to implement it. The school committee will make every effort to recruit and develop a highly qualified and motivated staff to carry out this program.

LEGAL REFS.: M.G.L. 71A:1 et seq. Board of Education Regulations for use in Administering Programs in Transitional Bilingual Education

Agawam Public Schools