Statewide testing program; require tests to be translated and printed in primary spoken language of ELL students.

HB 98 requires Mississippi's statewide student tests to be administered in the primary spoken language of English Language Learners (ELLs) instead of only English. It directly affects ELL students in public schools by mandating that the State Department of Education translate tests into appropriate languages for each grade level, and school districts must report ELL language data and request translation assistance in advance. Key provisions include requiring translated test materials, providing translation support through state-provided observers/proctors, and excluding English language arts tests and the ACT from these requirements. The bill aims to ensure ELL students are not disadvantaged during testing by accommodating their language needs.