Language Acquisition Tracking Program for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Children - Establishment

SB 502 establishes a statewide program to track language development for deaf or hard of hearing children under age 9. The bill creates a State Coordinator within the Maryland Department of Education to oversee the program, requiring annual assessments using an approved tool every six months starting from diagnosis. These assessments, administered by teachers or specialists, track progress toward language milestones and integrate results into existing plans (like IEPs or 504 plans), with parents able to opt out via written notice. The program directly affects eligible children (defined as having permanent hearing loss), their families, and educators, aiming to ensure language skill development aligns with peers through standardized tracking.