Louisiana Senate Bill SB366

Louisiana 2014 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/10/14
• Refer: 3/10/14
• Report Pass: 4/21/14
• Engrossed: 4/24/14
• Refer: 4/28/14
• Report Pass: 5/21/14
• Enrolled: 6/1/14
• Chaptered: 6/19/14
• Passed: 6/19/14

Caption

Requires BESE to develop a master plan for K-12 education. (8/1/14)

Impact

The enactment of SB 366 will require BESE to undertake significant oversight of educational policies and practices, ultimately aiming to create a more effective and cohesive K-12 education environment. It will facilitate a unified approach to education optimization, integrating recommendations that could influence legislative actions in favor of educational reforms. Furthermore, this bill indicates a shift towards embracing technology as a fundamental component of the educational framework, potentially impacting how teaching and learning occur within Louisiana’s schools.

Summary

Senate Bill 366 aims to enhance the state’s K-12 education system by mandating the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) to develop a comprehensive master plan. This plan will address strategic objectives, integrating technology within classrooms, and will require periodic reviews and revisions to ensure that it meets the evolving educational needs. The primary goal of the bill is to streamline education efforts and establish clear directives for improving elementary and secondary education across the state.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 366 appears to be generally supportive among lawmakers, with a unanimous vote of 97-0 in favor during its final passage, indicating strong bipartisan agreement on the significance of enhancing educational frameworks. Advocates for the bill emphasize the importance of structured planning and implementation in education. However, skepticism may arise from critics concerned about the practical execution of such a master plan, particularly in terms of resource allocation and technology integration.

Contention

While the bill is largely viewed as a progressive step toward improving education, there may be points of contention regarding the adequacy of funding and resources for implementing the proposed master plan effectively. Additionally, concerns about whether the technological advancements align adequately with current teaching practices and infrastructural capabilities could be debated. The expectation for annual reporting to the legislature and the governor may also introduce scrutiny on the plan's effectiveness and impact over time.