Louisiana House Bill HB572

Louisiana 2017 Regular Session

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

Caption

Provides requirements for administering standards-based assessments to public school students (OR DECREASE GF EX See Note)

Impact

The proposed changes impact Louisiana's education system by shifting the focus of assessment. By revising the testing schedule, the bill aims to provide greater flexibility for teachers and students, potentially leading to enhanced educational outcomes. State educational authorities would be responsible for defining proficiency levels not only for grades four and eight but for all grade levels, establishing a standardized approach to ensure that all students meet the required competency in core subject areas.

Summary

House Bill 572 aims to amend the requirements for administering standards-based assessments to public school students in Louisiana. The bill fundamentally alters the existing testing schedule by removing the obligation for annual testing across all subjects from grades 3 through 11. Instead, it proposes a more tailored schedule where assessments in English language arts and mathematics would still occur annually in the early years but evaluations in science and social studies would be conducted less frequently. This adjustment is intended to reduce the testing burden on students while retaining a level of accountability through established standards.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 572 is mixed among legislators and educational stakeholders. Proponents argue that reducing the frequency of assessments will allow for deeper learning and less test fatigue among students, which could lead to better educational experiences. However, critics express concern that less frequent testing might weaken accountability and diminish the ability to track student progress over time. This debate highlights the ongoing tension between standardized testing mandates and the need for innovative, student-centered approaches to education.

Contention

Notable points of contention in discussions about HB 572 include arguments about the effectiveness of standardized testing as a measure of student capability and the implications of less frequent assessments on educational quality. Supporters believe the bill will foster a more supportive learning environment, while opponents fear it could create gaps in educational accountability. The bill's original intent to lighten the testing load is juxtaposed with the necessity of maintaining rigorous standards for student achievement, creating a complex dialogue regarding the future of educational assessments in Louisiana.