(Constitutional Amendment) Provides for a nine-member State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (OR DECREASE GF EX See Note)
Impact
The proposed amendment could significantly alter the governance of education in Louisiana by potentially allowing for more cohesive policies and management within the BESE. By reducing the number of appointed representatives, it is argued that the board can operate more efficiently and with less fragmentation. However, this could also mean a shift in the representation of diverse viewpoints within the board, raising questions about whether this change will adequately reflect the needs and interests of all stakeholders in the education sector, particularly in rural or underserved areas.
Summary
House Bill 96 proposes a constitutional amendment that seeks to change the composition of the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) in Louisiana. Specifically, the bill aims to reduce the number of board members from eleven to nine, while also altering how appointments are made. The new structure would consist of eight elected members and only one at-large member, who would be appointed jointly by the governor, the speaker of the House, and the president of the Senate, with Senate consent. This change is designed to streamline the decision-making process within the board, which is responsible for overseeing elementary and secondary education in the state.
Sentiment
Sentiment around HB 96 is mixed, including both support and opposition from various stakeholders. Proponents assert that reducing the board’s size will lead to less bureaucratic overhead and more decisive action in educational policy-making, thereby benefiting the school system as a whole. Conversely, critics argue that fewer appointed members may lead to less diversity in opinions and perspectives on educational issues, potentially marginalizing certain communities and their specific needs in education policy.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding the bill include concerns over the potential loss of representation for various demographics in Louisiana education. Opponents fear that consolidating power within the board could stifle local voices that play a crucial role in educational governance. The debate emphasizes the balance between operational efficiency and inclusive representation in state educational bodies, signaling broader issues about authority and accountability in educational reforms.
(Constitutional Amendment) Provides for the appointing authority and qualifications of appointed board members of the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education
(Constitutional Amendment) Eliminates the gubernatorial appointment of three members of the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education, providing for an all-elected membership and reducing the membership to eight
Eliminates, subject to adoption of a constitutional amendment, the gubernatorial appointment of three members of the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education, providing for an all-elected membership and reducing the membership to eight
(Constitutional Amendment) Abolishes State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE), transfers BESE duties, functions, and responsibilities to the state superintendent of education, and provides for election of the state superintendent
(Constitutional Amendment) Abolishes BESE, transfers board duties, functions, and responsibilities to the state superintendent and provides for the superintendent to be appointed by the governor (OR DECREASE GF EX See Note)
Proposes temporary constitutional amendment allowing State constitutional convention convened to reform system of property taxation to propose statutory changes.
Proposes temporary constitutional amendment allowing State constitutional convention convened to reform system of property taxation to propose statutory changes.