Provides relative to the use of student assessment data for school accountability purposes for the 2016-17 school year for parishes in declared disaster areas. (gov sig)
Impact
The bill modifies existing regulations governing how student assessments are utilized in evaluating school performance. It mandates that the Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) must assess and, if necessary, adjust performance calculations for schools in parishes declared as disaster areas. This change can potentially provide relief for schools that may perform poorly due to the impact of disasters rather than reflecting the actual educational quality provided by those institutions.
Summary
Senate Bill 170 addresses the use of student assessment data for school accountability specifically for the 2016-2017 school year, targeting parishes that have experienced declared disasters. The bill allows for specific accommodations in calculating school and district performance scores and letter grades based on the challenges faced by these districts due to disasters. By adjusting the performance metrics, the legislation aims to ensure that schools in affected areas are not unduly penalized for factors outside their control.
Sentiment
The sentiment around SB 170 appears to be largely positive among members of the legislature, as it provides necessary adjustments for areas suffering from the repercussions of disasters. Supporters argue that it is essential to maintain equitable assessment practices so that schools are not unfairly judged based on adverse conditions. There has been unanimous legislative support, as evidenced by the Senate vote of 35-0 in favor of the bill.
Contention
While the bill has been largely supported, some discussions may have involved concerns regarding the implementation and effectiveness of the accommodations provided. The debate could also hinge on how the adjustments will be measured and monitored to ensure accountability is maintained despite the modifications being made for disaster-stricken parishes. It must also address the balance between accountability and fairness in the educational assessment process.
Prohibits use of statewide student assessments conducted during the 2020-2021 school year for the purposes of evaluating teacher performance or student placement decisions. (gov sig) (Item #42)
Provides relative to the use of student assessment results for the 2020-2021 school year with respect to school and district accountability, teacher evaluation, and student promotion (Item #42)
Requires that schools utilize a nationally normed assessment instead of the LEAP test for purposes of school and district accountability. (gov sig) (OR INCREASE GF EX See Note)
Allows each public school governing authority to determine the education content standards and assessments to be used in the schools under its jurisdiction. (gov sig)
Allows each public school governing authority to determine the education content standards and assessments to be used in the schools under its jurisdiction. (gov sig) (OR INCREASE LF EX See Note)
Prohibits penalizing public school students, teachers, schools, or school systems for students not participating in certain Spring 2015 state assessments
Allows each public school governing authority to determine the education content standards and assessments to be used in the schools under its jurisdiction. (gov sig) (OR INCREASE LF EX See Note)
Provides relative to the development, review, and adoption of state content standards and related assessments for public school students (OR INCREASE GF EX See Note)