Mandarin Proposals for 2009 Legislature - as of 3/22/08

Mandarin and Study Abroad Proposals to put before 2009 Oregon Legislature (as of 3/22/08).

1. Proposing HB 2763 again, same funding of $350,000.

2. Proposing $1.6 million for 5 Mandarin immersion startups. $300,000 each plus $100,000 to Dept. of Ed. for administration. Intent is to have one in each congressional district, if possible.

3. Proposing legislation that permits local school districts to use the funds they get from the state and any other funds to give scholarships to high school students to study abroad. School districts to get state funds for such students as if they were in district. At least 90% of the funds received from the state for students studying abroad must go for the scholarships. No liability of district for programs abroad, scholarship to parents/students. Scholarship can be used for any associated expenses such as tuition, transportation, room & board, books, etc., and not limited to tuition.

4. Proposing companion legislation to adjust/waive high school graduation requirements for students who study abroad for an academic year. Specifics to be worked out, but intent is that a student studying abroad for an academic year would not need to do an extra year of high school, including students studying who study a foreign language only and are not in a foreign high school (ie – studying the foreign language 20+ hours per week in a private language school and living with a foreign family).

5. Proposing $500,000 for additional academic years study abroad scholarships for “critical need languages.” FY 1 -$150,000 for 50 students; FY 2 - $300,000 for 100 students; plus $50,000 to the Dept of Ed for administration. Scholarship would augment scholarships provided by school districts.

6. Proposing $550,000 for scholarship for sending high school students to study abroad in China for one month in the summer. FY 1 -$150,000 for 45 students; FY 2 - $300,000 for 90 students; plus $100,000 to the Dept of Ed for administration. Any student having completed (or currently taking) one year of high school Mandarin eligible. If too many apply, final selection by lottery. No liability to the state for program abroad, scholarships to parents/students. May need to work with non-profits to provide programs.

Summary of funding proposed

HB 2763 again.............................................. $350,000

5 Immersion start-ups............................. .. $1,600,000

“Critical need language” scholarships.............. $500,000

Summer Scholarship..................................... $550,000

Total......................................................... $3,000,000