Louisiana Senate Bill SCR68

Louisiana 2010 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/5/10
• Passed: 5/5/10
• Engrossed: 5/5/10

Caption

Requests BESE to study the admission and expulsion criteria in charter schools and the impact of that criteria on at-risk and special needs students.

Impact

The anticipated outcome of SCR68 could lead to significant changes in how charter schools operate, particularly regarding their policies on student admissions and expulsions. If BESE's study confirms that current practices adversely affect the enrollment of at-risk and special needs students, this may prompt legislative action to reform these criteria in order to ensure better educational equity and access. It aims to improve the representation of diverse populations in educational environments funded by taxpayer dollars.

Summary

SCR68 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution urging the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) to investigate the admission and expulsion criteria within Louisiana's charter schools. This resolution highlights concerns about the representation of at-risk and special needs students in charter schools compared to traditional public schools, as well as the troubling expulsion rates in Louisiana, which are reported to be significantly higher than the national average. The resolution calls for a comprehensive study to evaluate whether these criteria create barriers for vulnerable student populations.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SCR68 reflects a strong acknowledgment of educational disparities and a willingness to address them through research and potential reform. There is a consensus among supporters that improving admission practices could help ensure that all students, regardless of their background or challenges, have equal access to quality education. However, there may also be opposition from sections of the charter school community who argue that stringent regulations could undermine their operational autonomy.

Contention

A key point of contention is the perceived balance between maintaining charter schools' independence and ensuring they meet the educational needs of all Louisiana children. While supporters of the resolution advocate for equal educational opportunities, opponents may argue that imposing additional requirements could hinder the flexibility that charter schools need to operate effectively. The debate centers on how best to support at-risk and special needs students without compromising the fundamental principles that charter schools were established to uphold.