A state advisory council shall be established by the department of elementary and secondary education. The council shall be comprised of twenty-one (21) members, one of whom shall be the chairperson of the house finance committee or his or her designee; one of whom shall be the chairperson of the senate finance committee or his or her designee; all others shall be appointed by the commissioner of elementary and secondary education and be representative of the significant segments of the limited English proficient population of the state or have demonstrated an interest in the education of the limited English proficient population. In appointing members to the state advisory council, the commissioner shall ensure equal access and opportunity for participation to all interested parties. Members of the state advisory council shall serve at the pleasure of the commissioner, serve without compensation, and be residents of the state. The advisory council shall advise the commissioner on all matters pertaining to the education of limited English proficient students.