Louisiana Senate Bill SR174

Louisiana 2014 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/28/14
• Passed: 5/29/14

Caption

Requests the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to review and consider adopting the United States Department of Education's "Guiding Principles

Impact

If adopted, the resolution encourages schools to adopt strategies focusing on creating positive climates, establishing clear expectations for student behavior, and ensuring equality and fairness in their disciplinary measures. This approach shifts the focus from punitive measures to preventive and supportive mechanisms. The implications are significant, as it promotes a transformation in how schools manage behavior, which could subsequently enhance the overall educational experience for students and reduce disparities in disciplinary actions.

Summary

Senate Resolution No. 174 calls upon the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to review and consider implementing the United States Department of Education's Guiding Principles: A Resource Guide for Improving School Climate and Discipline. This resolution aims to support schools in creating a more nurturing and positive environment conducive to student achievement. It highlights that traditional disciplinary methods like suspensions and expulsions may not be the most effective means of fostering a safe school climate, particularly for students of color and those with disabilities.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SR174 appears to be supportive, particularly among advocates of educational reform and equity. Many stakeholders see this resolution as an essential step towards addressing the root causes of disruptive behavior in schools. The focus on positive discipline and equitable treatment aligns with current trends in educational policy that prioritize mental health and supportive learning environments. However, there may be some contention among those who believe in the necessity of traditional disciplinary measures, asserting that they are sometimes required to maintain order in schools.

Contention

Notably, while the resolution urges the State Board to consider these guiding principles, it does not mandate immediate changes in current school behavioral policies or practices. This could lead to discussions about the degree of autonomy schools will retain in managing discipline, as well as potential pushback from those who argue that a one-size-fits-all approach to behavior management may not serve all school communities equally well.