Requests the Board of Regents to develop a strategy to attract more students to and graduate more students in STEM disciplines.
Impact
The resolution reflects a growing recognition of the critical role STEM education plays in economic development and innovation. By calling on the Board of Regents to take proactive measures, the bill emphasizes the need for systemic changes in how the state supports STEM education through enhanced recruitment efforts and resources for students. If implemented, this initiative could lead to a significant increase in the number of graduates in these vital fields, ultimately contributing to a more skilled workforce in Louisiana.
Summary
Senate Resolution No. 120, proposed by Senator Appel, urges the Board of Regents to develop effective strategies to attract more students to the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) and to increase graduation rates for these disciplines within Louisiana's colleges and universities. The resolution arises from concerns about the declining number of students pursuing and completing STEM degrees, which are crucial for maintaining the state's and nation's economic competitiveness in a rapidly evolving global market.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SR120 appears to be overwhelmingly positive as it aligns with broader goals of improving education and fostering economic growth in the state. Legislators express a strong commitment to addressing educational gaps in STEM disciplines, viewing this resolution as a necessary step in ensuring that Louisiana remains competitive in the national and international job markets. There is a recognition among stakeholders of the importance of STEM education for sustaining innovation and economic development.
Contention
While the resolution itself may not have sparked significant opposition or contention, broader discussions around education funding and resource allocation in the state could influence its implementation. Stakeholders may raise concerns about existing disparities in funding for STEM programs compared to other educational disciplines, and whether the Board of Regents will be able to effectively address these challenges. Overall, however, the focus on STEM is expected to garner support from various educational and business communities.
Requests the Board of Regents and the postsecondary education management boards to conduct a comprehensive study of student articulation and transfer in the state.
Requests the Department of Economic Development to encourage new and existing Louisiana companies to create strategies that would increase the number of women employed in STEM positions
Requests DOE to study the feasibility of establishing AP Computer Science as an equivalent advanced mathematics course for purposes of satisfying high school graduation and TOPS eligibility requirements.
Requests the Board of Regents to conduct a study of two-year college services offered in northeast Louisiana and determine how best to meet both the educational needs of students and workforce development needs of business and industry in the region.
Requests the state Department of Education, the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education, the Board of Regents, and postsecondary education management boards to promote artificial intelligence education for students and to encourage professional development relative to artificial intelligence for faculty and staff
Requests the Board of Regents to report on all students admitted to public postsecondary four-year institutions who did not meet admission requirements.
Requests the Board of Regents to study the benefits of consolidating academic and research programs and disciplines in and among public colleges and universities.
Requests the Board of Regents to conduct a study of two-year college services offered in the greater south central Louisiana area and determine how best to meet both the educational needs of students and workforce development needs of business and industry in the area.