BEST Act

The BEST Act would authorize the Department of Education to provide renewable two-year grants to states to establish or expand Seal of Biliteracy programs. These programs would recognize students who demonstrate proficiency in both English and a second language, with proficiency measured through speaking and writing abilities in both languages, and potentially through reading and listening as well.

The bill includes a provision allowing speakers of Native American languages to use proficiency in their native language in place of English proficiency to earn the seal. If enacted, this legislation could expand opportunities for students to have their multilingual abilities formally recognized and certified, potentially benefiting students from bilingual households and those studying foreign languages in school.

Currently, the bill has been introduced in the House and referred to committee for consideration. It has not yet been voted on by the full chamber.