Requires nonpublic schools participating in school choice scholarship programs to administer certain tests to all students
Impact
The legislation is expected to tighten the regulations surrounding nonpublic schools by requiring them to administer standardized tests similar to those required in public schools. This could lead to improved educational outcomes by holding nonpublic schools to measurement standards which, in the past, may not have been uniformly applied. Proponents argue that this requirement will help parents make informed decisions about school choice while ensuring that all students achieve baseline educational standards contributing to overall educational performance in the state.
Summary
House Bill 653 mandates that nonpublic schools participating in Louisiana's school choice scholarship programs must administer all accountability tests to students enrolled in these schools. The bill aims to ensure that educational oversight and standards are maintained for students receiving scholarships through initiatives such as the Student Scholarships for Educational Excellence Program and the School Choice Pilot Program for Certain Students with Exceptionalities. By enforcing testing requirements, the bill seeks to enhance educational accountability within nonpublic institutions and guarantee that all students, regardless of their type of schooling, are subject to the same educational assessments.
Sentiment
The general sentiment surrounding HB 653 appears to be mixed. Advocates for education reform and accountability lauded the requirement as a means to increase transparency and fairness in education, supporting parents in evaluating their options under the school choice program. Conversely, some opponents raised concerns about the added pressures on nonpublic schools and cited fears that the legislation could stifle the flexibility and innovation that these institutions have historically provided. This reflects a broader tension between regulatory accountability and the desire for diverse educational options and approaches.
Contention
Notable points of contention revolve around the perceived burden that these testing requirements may place on nonpublic schools and the broader implications for school choice programs. Critics argue that imposing strict testing could undermine the very principles of flexibility and personalized education that school choice is meant to foster. Furthermore, questions arise regarding the adequacy and fairness of the tests administered, especially concerning students with exceptionalities, prompting a debate on the equity and accessibility of educational assessment methods.
Provides relative to school choice, including the Student Scholarships for Educational Excellence Program, parent petitions to transfer certain schools to be RSD, charter school authorizers, and course providers. (gov sig) (EG INCREASE LF EX See Note)
Provides relative to the Student Scholarships for Educational Excellence Program, parent petitions for certain schools to be transferred to the RSD, charter school authorizers, and course providers (EN INCREASE LF EX See Note)
Requires teachers in all public schools and in nonpublic schools participating in the voucher program to take the state assessments aligned to the Common Core State Standards prior to administering such assessments to students
Provides relative to the Student Scholarships for Educational Excellence (voucher) Program, including scholarship amounts, funding, and eligibility requirements for kindergarten students (OR NO IMPACT GF EX See Note)
Provide relative to the enrollment cap for certain nonpublic schools participating in the Student Scholarships for Educational Excellence Program. (gov sig)