Louisiana House Bill HB1399

Louisiana 2010 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/20/10
• Refer: 4/21/10
• Report Pass: 5/25/10

Caption

Provides relative to certain academic qualifications for a TOPS Opportunity Award

Impact

The implementation of HB 1399 is expected to impact the eligibility of students for the TOPS program significantly. By tightening the GPA requirement, the bill aims to encourage higher academic performance among Louisiana high school students. This could lead to a scenario where fewer students qualify for the award, possibly affecting the number of students who can afford to pursue higher education in Louisiana without incurring significant debt. The bill reflects a broader goal to improve educational outcomes in the state and maintain high standards for scholarship programs.

Summary

House Bill 1399 addresses academic qualifications for the Taylor Opportunity Program for Students (TOPS) in Louisiana. It specifically mandates that, starting from the 2013-2014 school year, students must maintain a minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale in order to be eligible for the Opportunity Award. This new requirement aims to enhance the academic standards associated with the award, ensuring that those who receive it demonstrate a certain level of academic achievement as defined by the grades in their core curriculum courses.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1399 has been generally supportive among lawmakers advocating for educational reform and higher standards. Proponents argue that elevating the GPA requirement aligns the TOPS program with the need for academic rigor. However, some educators and parents have raised concerns about the potential negative consequences for students who may struggle to meet the new requirements, suggesting that this could discourage higher education enrollment among lower-performing students or those facing external challenges.

Contention

Key points of contention regarding HB 1399 revolve around the implications of increasing academic eligibility criteria on student access to scholarships. Critics argue that raising the GPA threshold could create barriers for certain demographics, potentially exacerbating educational inequalities. There are concerns that the bill does not take into account the diverse challenges faced by students in different educational environments, suggesting that a one-size-fits-all approach may not effectively support the goals of fairness in educational opportunity.