Large numbers of Puerto Rican and other non-English-speaking students live in school districts throughout New York State. To enable these students to function in an English-speaking society while retaining their own culture, a policy to promote bilingual program planning was established by the Board of Regents of New York State in 1972. In this statement of that policy, communities are advised regarding strategies for determining local needs and identifying resources, within a framework of flexible program possibilities. The state's commitment to meeting the educational needs of minority citizens is reviewed through a summary of policy statements and programs sponsored by the Board of Regents. Priorities for action to implement the policy emphasize: (1) increased allocation of resources to bilingual education, (2) improvements in teacher training and teaching methods, and (3) state assistance to localities that bear the burden of program development. Appendices present data on: (1) academic success of Puerto Rican students in New York; (2) Title VII ESEA expenditures in New York, 1969-1972; (3) ethnicity in New York public schools; (4) English speaking ability of New York City public school students; and (5) ethnic idenity of undergraduates in New York colleges and universities. The document is presented in Spanish and in English. (JB)