Language Access Reference

Whether you are looking to expand your expertise as a language professional, seeking guidance on Language Access compliance in educational settings, or simply curious about the subject, the RCOE Translation Services Unit invites you to explore the following curated collection of digital resources, glossaries, law information and essential tools pertaining to Language Access in education.

Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964

  • Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 is a federal law that prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, or national origin in programs and activities receiving federal financial assistance. In the context of language access and services for Limited English Proficiency (LEP) parents, Title VI requires that entities receiving federal funding, such as schools and educational institutions, provide meaningful access to information and services for individuals with limited English skills.

Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) Public Law 114-95, Section 1116

  • The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) 114-95 Section 1116 emphasizes the importance of providing meaningful communication and information in a language that LEP parents can understand. It requires schools to offer translation and interpretation services to ensure effective communication between educators and LEP parents, enabling them to participate in their child's education fully.

Equal Education Opportunities Act of 1974

  • The act mandates that school districts must take appropriate steps to overcome language barriers that may prevent LEP parents from fully participating in their children's education. This includes providing translation and interpretation services, as well as offering programs that promote language proficiency and communication between school staff and LEP parents. The goal is to ensure that language differences do not hinder parents' involvement in their children's education and that all students receive equal access to educational resources and opportunities.

Education Code 48985

  • Education Code 48985, also known as the "Language Access for Parents of English Learners Act," mandates language access and services in education in California. Under this code, schools are required to provide information and important school documents in a language that parents or guardians of English Learners can understand, ensuring meaningful communication and participation.

Education Code 51101.1

  • California Education Code 51101.1 is a legislative provision that addresses language access and language services in education. It mandates that school districts with a substantial number of students who have a primary language other than English must develop and implement a plan to ensure these students receive appropriate language assistance services.

Resources