Requires BESE to establish a uniform grading scale for use in public schools (EN NO IMPACT EX See Note)
Impact
The introduction of a uniform grading scale could significantly affect state laws regarding educational standards and accountability metrics. In particular, it directs BESE to appoint a task force during the 2010-2011 school year to gather input and formulate recommendations for the new grading system. This task force will comprise a diverse set of stakeholders, including educators, school boards, and representatives from various educational associations, ensuring that multiple perspectives are considered in the development of the grading policy.
Summary
House Bill 433 mandates the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) to develop and implement a uniform grading scale for public schools in Louisiana. This initiative aims to standardize grading criteria across various educational institutions, ensuring a consistent measurement of student performance and facilitating comparisons between schools. By enforcing a uniform grading system, the bill seeks to promote equity in educational assessment, addressing discrepancies that may arise from varied grading policies currently in place among schools.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HB 433 appears to be generally supportive, especially among educational professionals who see the value in standardized assessments. However, there may also be concerns regarding the potential impact on localized educational practices. Stakeholders may worry about the flexibility of grading methods tailored to specific educational environments and the implications a uniform scale has on teaching methodologies and student evaluations.
Contention
Notable points of contention could arise from differing opinions on the effectiveness and relevance of a standardized grading scale. Critics may argue that a one-size-fits-all approach does not accommodate the unique needs of diverse student populations and might undermine efforts to personalize education. Additionally, the exemption for schools operated by the U.S. Department of Defense may provoke discussions on equity and fairness among public school systems, raising questions about why certain institutions are excluded from compliance with the new grading regulations.
Requires instruction relative to CPR and automated external defibrillators to be integrated into the curriculum of an existing required course of study in public high schools (EN NO IMPACT See Note)
Requires schools to use a 10-point grading scale to assign grades used in the calculation of the minimum grade point average required for initial award eligibility (EN SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)
Requests that the Bd. of Regents and the State Bd. of Elementary and Secondary Education, with the Taylor Foundation, La. Office of Student Financial Assistance, public postsecondary education management boards, and certain others, study certain issues relative to TOPS
Requests the Louisiana Workforce Commission and the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs to study employment practices and professional licensing requirements to benefit veterans in the workforce
Creates a task force to study meaningful oversight of the professional healthcare licensing boards statutorily created within the Department of Health and Hospitals.