Louisiana Senate Bill SB798

Louisiana 2010 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/18/10
• Engrossed: 5/26/10
• Refer: 5/27/10
• Report Pass: 6/8/10
• Enrolled: 6/18/10
• Chaptered: 6/29/10
• Passed: 6/29/10

Caption

Provides that a high school diploma awarded by an approved home study program shall receive the same recognition as one awarded by an approved nonpublic school. (8/15/10)

Impact

By ensuring that diplomas from approved home study programs are recognized by public postsecondary educational institutions and governmental entities, SB798 aims to create parity in educational qualifications for students in Louisiana. This legislative change will likely empower families who choose home education by facilitating access to higher education and state services that may have previously been more challenging for home-schooled individuals. Acknowledging the legitimacy of home study programs through this law may also enhance the perceived value of home education among the public and institutions alike.

Summary

Senate Bill 798 enacts a provision in the Louisiana Revised Statutes which recognizes high school diplomas awarded by state-approved home study programs equally to those awarded by approved nonpublic schools. This legislative shift is intended to address the recognition of home school education within the state’s educational framework. The new law signals a formal acknowledgment of home study programs, providing graduates with access to the same privileges and opportunities as their peers who have attended traditional or nonpublic educational institutions.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB798 appears largely positive among proponents of home education, who view the bill as a significant step towards validation and support of alternative educational pathways. Supporters argue that it rectifies a historical oversight whereby home education was not afforded the same recognition as traditional schooling. Nonetheless, the bill may be met with some resistance from critics who question the rigor and accountability of home study programs compared to their accredited counterparts, reflecting a broader debate about educational standards and parental rights in education.

Contention

While SB798 appears straightforward in its objectives, contention may arise around the criteria for what constitutes an 'approved home study program' and how these programs are monitored for quality. Critics may raise concerns about the potential for varying educational standards among home study programs and the implications this has for higher education admissions and workforce readiness. The bill could prompt further discussions on the need for robust oversight mechanisms to ensure that all educational pathways maintain high standards of education.