Provides relative to the La. Competency-Based Education Program and the La. Education Assessment Program (LEAP) tests. (gov sig)
Impact
The bill stipulates that the assessments will be based on state content standards, which will reflect the necessary knowledge and skills that students must acquire to ensure a successful transition to postsecondary education and the workforce. This realignment of responsibility is expected to streamline the testing process and enhance educational accountability by ensuring that assessments are more closely aligned with state standards that meet current educational needs.
Summary
Senate Bill 166, introduced by Senator Appel, aims to modify the Louisiana Competency-Based Education Program and the Louisiana Educational Assessment Program (LEAP) tests. The bill primarily focuses on the implementation of statewide content standards for various required subjects, including English language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies. Specifically, it seeks to clarify and reinforce the role of the Department of Education in administering these assessments, as opposed to the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE), which had been responsible under previous regulations.
Sentiment
The sentiment around SB 166 appears to be generally supportive among educational reform advocates who favor competency-based education frameworks. Proponents argue that by placing assessment implementation responsibilities under the Department of Education, the state can achieve greater consistency and effectiveness in how educational standards are applied. However, some educators and policymakers might express concerns regarding the shift of responsibilities from BESE to the Department of Education, fearing a reduction in local oversight over educational matters.
Contention
One of the notable points of contention regarding SB 166 revolves around the balance of power between state and local educational authorities. Critics worry that centralizing assessment responsibilities could diminish the input that local school boards have in tailoring education to their community's specific needs. This bill highlights ongoing debates about the best approach to achieving educational excellence while maintaining local control and flexibility in decision-making.
Prohibits administration of Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers assessments and provides for continuation of La. Educational Assessment Program tests and the standards on which such tests are based (OR SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)
Prohibits administration of Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers assessments and provides for continuation of La. Educational Assessment Program tests and the standards on which such tests are based (OR SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)
Prohibits implementation of the Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers (PARCC) assessments and provides for continuation of La. Educational Assessment Program tests (OR SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)