Louisiana House Bill HB569

Louisiana 2017 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/31/17
• Refer: 3/31/17
• Refer: 4/10/17

Caption

Provides relative to education standards and related assessments

Impact

The enactment of HB 569 would streamline educational protocols by eliminating outdated legal requirements concerning assessment protocols and competency standards development. By repealing earlier provisions, the bill intends to foster an educational environment more adaptable to current pedagogical approaches and student needs. Additionally, it retains existing requirements for state content standards and performance assessments, signifying a commitment to maintaining rigor in educational accountability while also seeking to accommodate a diversity of student learning abilities.

Summary

House Bill 569, introduced by Representative Nancy Landry, seeks to amend and update the current regulations surrounding education standards and assessments in Louisiana. The bill primarily aims to refine the Louisiana Competency-Based Education Program by repealing various outdated provisions and making adjustments to the requirements for educational assessments across the state. It focuses specifically on the standards-based assessments that are required for subjects like English language arts, math, science, and social studies in grades 3 through 11. This legislative effort is part of a broader initiative to ensure that the educational framework is both modernized and in line with national expectations.

Sentiment

Sentiment surrounding HB 569 appears mixed. Supporters, including many educators and administrators, view the bill as a necessary update that aligns Louisiana's educational systems with current best practices and national standards. They argue that these changes will facilitate better educational outcomes for students. Conversely, critics express concerns that the repeal of certain provisions could lead to gaps in educational support, particularly for students who require modified assessments due to disabilities. This disagreement highlights the tension between trying to innovate in education while ensuring all students receive the necessary support.

Contention

One of the main points of contention regarding HB 569 is the impact of repealing the provisions related to alternative assessments aimed at students with disabilities. Opponents argue that this repeal may hinder the ability of educators to evaluate and support students with unique educational needs, potentially leading to a wider gap in achievement for those populations. The discussions within legislative committees also indicate a need for a careful balance between streamlining assessments and ensuring comprehensive support systems are in place to assist all students in achieving proficiency.