School bd. policies; communication & language accessibility for limited English proficient parents.

This legislation requires Virginia school boards to adopt policies ensuring effective communication with parents who have limited English proficiency. Schools must provide essential information in a language the parents understand, ensuring they can actively participate in their children's education and school-related decision-making. By mandating these accessibility standards, the bill aims to bridge the language gap for immigrant and non-native English-speaking families across the state. In Arlington, where a diverse population speaks dozens of languages, this measure reinforces local efforts to foster an inclusive school environment. It will likely result in more consistent document translation services and the increased use of qualified interpreters during meetings, ensuring that all caregivers remain fully informed and engaged regarding their student’s academic progress and school policies.