BEST Act

# BEST Act Summary The BEST Act (Biliteracy Education Seal and Teaching Act) would provide federal grants to states to create or expand programs that officially recognize when students become proficient in English and at least one other language. Students would earn a "Seal of Biliteracy" by demonstrating proficiency in speaking and writing in both languages, with reading and listening skills also counting toward the credential. The bill includes a special provision allowing Native American students to use proficiency in their tribal language instead of English to meet the requirement. The bill primarily affects K-12 students, schools, and states interested in promoting multilingual education.

It would direct the Department of Education to award renewable two-year grants to states implementing these programs. This could benefit students who grow up speaking languages other than English at home, as well as Native American students, by formally recognizing their language skills on their educational record—a credential that could potentially help with college admissions or job applications. **Current Status:** The bill is currently in committee, meaning it has been introduced but has not yet been debated or voted on by the full House of Representatives.