Authorizes surveys of public school students in Orleans Parish regarding risk behaviors. (8/1/15)
By allowing anonymized surveys, SB31 aims to provide schools a means of collecting relevant data without infringing on parental rights or student privacy. The legislation mandates that parents or guardians receive a copy of the survey, ensuring transparency and giving them the option to excuse their children from participation. The results from these surveys will be reported in aggregate form, which maintains confidentiality regarding individual student responses and ensures that school-level data will not be publicly recorded.
Senate Bill 31, introduced by Senator Morrell, seeks to update the process regarding the administration of surveys concerning risk behaviors among students in Orleans Parish. The bill amends existing educational law to allow governing authorities in public schools to conduct anonymous surveys related to students' sexual health and other risk behaviors. While previous regulations prohibited testing or surveying students about their personal beliefs or practices in sex, morality, or religion, SB31 presents an important exception specifically for Orleans Parish. This change is intended to further understand and address the health needs of students in that locality.
The sentiment surrounding SB31 appears to be cautiously optimistic among proponents who believe that it will enhance understanding of student health needs and help formulate better-targeted support measures. However, there are concerns from some stakeholders about the appropriateness of gathering information on sensitive topics and the nature of parental consent. Advocates for the bill argue that insightful data could lead to more effective educational policies for adolescents, especially in a diverse and populous area like Orleans Parish.
Despite its intended benefits, SB31 has faced some contention regarding the balance between student privacy and the need for protective measures aimed at public health. Critics express apprehension about the potential misuse of survey data and the implications of asking students about risk behaviors, particularly in a school setting. The bill aims to navigate this delicate landscape by emphasizing anonymity and confidentiality, but the discussion around it highlights the ongoing debate about how best to handle health education and student welfare in public schools.