Requests the state superintendent of education, in consultation with local and state officials, to jointly study and develop recommendations for creating a more seamless system of secondary and postsecondary education.
Impact
The resolution seeks to address systemic issues in Louisiana's education funding and organization, advocating for a shift away from siloed operations between secondary and postsecondary education systems. In doing so, it emphasizes the need for a coordinated effort that maximizes state financial resources while minimizing costs for families. This change is particularly crucial for underserved areas where access to education and counseling resources is often limited. By dismantling barriers that prevent seamless transitions into higher education, the proposal aims to foster a more equitable system that can respond to the labor market's demands.
Summary
Senate Resolution 182, authored by Senator Walsworth, urges the state superintendent of education and other key education and economic leaders in Louisiana to collaboratively study and develop recommendations for creating a more seamless system of secondary and postsecondary education. The bill highlights existing issues such as low public high school education outcomes, inadequate academic counseling, and financial disincentives that hinder students from maximizing their high school education towards postsecondary goals. By proposing a systematic approach, the resolution aims to streamline educational processes to support student transitions from high school to college, thereby enhancing educational outcomes and increasing the likelihood of college completion.
Sentiment
The general sentiment surrounding SR182 appears positive and supportive from educational stakeholders who recognize the inefficiencies in the current educational framework. Educators and advocates argue that the resolution could lead to better coordination and communication between different educational entities, ultimately benefitting high school students. However, there could be potential challenges in ensuring that all voices, especially from rural communities and diverse educational backgrounds, are considered in developing the proposed recommendations.
Contention
While SR182 emphasizes the need for collaboration among various educational bodies, concerns could arise regarding the execution of the recommendations and the balancing of local needs with state-level directives. Specifically, critics may argue that a top-down approach could overlook specific local challenges and needs for tailored educational solutions. Additionally, defining the metrics for success and determining appropriate funding measures will be pivotal in responding to the diverse requirements of students across different regions.
Requests the commissioner of higher education and the state superintendent of education to jointly report to the legislature on increasing availability and use of dual enrollment programs
Requests that the State Bd. of Elementary and Secondary Education, in consultation with the Bd. of Regents and public school governing authorities, study certain issues relative to educator preparation programs
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 that the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education study the history of racism, racism's effects on public education, and anti-racism education and creates a task force to develop recommendations for implementing such education
Requests the state Department of Education, in consultation with the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education, to study pathways to the teaching profession
Requests the Board of Regents to re-examine the state's public postsecondary education delivery system and make recommendations regarding the role, scope, and mission of each public postsecondary institution.
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 the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to create a task force to study issues and develop a plan relative to quality after-school and expanded learning programs for students
Requests that the State Bd. of Elementary and Secondary Education, in consultation with the Bd. of Regents, study the feasibility and costs of using state funds to pay for students in approved home study programs to participate in certain dual enrollment programs
Requests the State Bd. of Elementary and Secondary Education and the La. Developmental Disabilities Council to study issues relative to high school graduation rates for special education students