Judge to hold hearing on funding in ELL case
by The Associated Press on Jul. 10, 2008, under Education, Local, SpecialPHOENIX — A federal judge plans to hold a hearing to examine whether Arizona is spending enough money on programs for students learning English.
Lawyers who filed a challenge to the spending levels want more money for newly required instruction models. They also want to prevent schools from being forced to use them until they get the cash.
State schools chief Tom Horne wants the request denied and says the models must go forward to avoid condemning students to inadequate programs.
The Legislature approved $40 million to implement the new programs in April. Republican legislative leaders say Arizona has complied with court orders requiring spending to teach non-English speakers.
No hearing date has yet been set.
