Provides relative to high school graduation requirements and Taylor Opportunity Program for Students (TOPS) core curriculum requirements (EN NO IMPACT GF EX See Note)
Impact
The bill's amendments significantly impact state educational standards by clarifying the instructional requirements that must be met for high school graduation. By modifying the curriculum guidelines, the state aims to better prepare students for both higher education and civic engagement. This reflects a growing recognition of the importance of government and economic education in the context of contemporary society, ensuring that students have a foundational understanding of these subjects as they graduate.
Summary
House Bill 1115 amends existing legislation pertaining to the high school graduation requirements in Louisiana, specifically focusing on the core curriculum necessary for students to remain eligible for the Taylor Opportunity Program for Students (TOPS). The bill establishes that all public high schools must provide instruction in Civics and Free Enterprise as a prerequisite for graduation. Changes to the bill now allow students entering school in 2014 and beyond to substitute AP courses in Government for the Civics requirement, a shift designed to align more closely with advanced educational offerings available to students.
Sentiment
Generally, the sentiment surrounding HB 1115 among legislators has been positive, with an overwhelming vote of 95-0 during the most recent vote. Supporters argue that the updates to the requirements will enhance students' preparedness for college and civic life, as well as provide more flexibility in how students can meet their graduation requirements. However, discussions may also hint at a concern that the removal of the strict Civics course requirement could dilute the educational experience in civic education, which is essential for informed citizenship.
Contention
One noteworthy point of contention regarding HB 1115 revolves around the substitution policy for the Civics requirement. Some educators and advocates worry that allowing AP Government courses to replace traditional Civics may lead to unequal access to education, as not all schools offer these advanced classes. This concern underscores the ongoing debate over educational equity and the necessity of ensuring all students receive comprehensive civic education that prepares them for active participation in democracy.
Revises core curriculum requirements and the method of calculating the grade point average for TOPS awards. (gov sig) (EN SEE FISC NOTE GF EX See Note)
Provides relative to the high school core curriculum requirements for certain students to be eligible for a TOPS Opportunity, Performance, or Honors award
Provides relative to courses that satisfy certain requirements relative to high school diplomas and Taylor Opportunity Program for Students (TOPS) awards (OR NO IMPACT See Note)
Adds computer science as a high school graduation requirement and requires teacher preparation programs to include computer science education (EN INCREASE GF EX See Note)