Requests the Department of Education and the Board of Regents to jointly study how to appropriately align the Career Diploma requirements and qualifying for a TOPS-Tech award.
Impact
The resolution aims to address the skills gap in Louisiana's workforce by supporting a more integrated approach to career education across high schools, community colleges, and local employers. It highlights the successful Jump Start program, which has been instrumental in encouraging collaboration among these sectors. By aligning Career Diploma requirements with TOPS-Tech qualifications, the state hopes to increase the number of students earning these diplomas and qualifications, thus preparing them for a more competitive job market in high-growth fields.
Summary
Senate Resolution No. 153 urges the Louisiana Department of Education and the Board of Regents to collaborate on studying how to align the Career Diploma requirements with the qualifications for a TOPS-Tech award. This initiative comes in response to the need for enhancing career and technical education in Louisiana, especially as a significant proportion of high school students fail to achieve advanced educational credentials necessary for high-wage job opportunities. The resolution reflects a growing recognition of the importance of aligning education pathways with the demands of the labor market.
Sentiment
The general sentiment surrounding SR153 is positive, with stakeholders acknowledging the need for a better-coordinated educational approach to meet workforce demands. However, there are underlying concerns regarding the implementation of such measures and whether they will effectively change perceptions about career education and encourage student enrollment in these programs. Policymakers appear committed to enhancing career education, seeing it as vital for the state’s economic future and workforce readiness.
Contention
While the sentiment is largely supportive, some contention exists regarding the potential challenges that may arise from aligning the Career Diploma with TOPS-Tech awards. Critics may argue that this alignment could lead to an oversimplification of educational pathways or create pressure for students to pursue tracks that may not align with their personal career aspirations. Additionally, concerns about funding and resources for implementing these educational programs effectively are also likely to be discussed as the resolution moves forward.
Requests that the Bd. of Regents and the State Bd. of Elementary and Secondary Education, with the Taylor Foundation, La. Office of Student Financial Assistance, public postsecondary education management boards, and certain others, study certain issues relative to TOPS
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 that the state Department of Education, Louisiana Workforce Commission, and Board of Regents jointly report on the status of data sharing agreements for the purpose of evaluating the Jump Start program
Urges and requests the Board of Regents and the state Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to include computer coding and American Sign Language as course equivalents for TOPS core curriculum and high school graduation requirements.
Requests the Board of Supervisors of Community and Technical Colleges and the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education jointly to study and report on granting a La. high school diploma to successful completers of adult education programs that meet state established standards