Provides relative to the provision of transition courses to high school seniors who are not college ready. (gov sig) (EN SEE FISC NOTE LF EX See Note)
Impact
The legislation requires public school governing authorities to actively identify students who fall short of the established readiness standards and provide them with information regarding the available transition courses. Additionally, it lays out the responsibility of these schools to use assessment data to gauge student progress and create opportunities for professional development for teachers responsible for these courses. The bill is set to take effect following the governor's signature, indicating a forward step towards improving educational outcomes for students at risk of not being college-ready.
Summary
Senate Bill No. 190 aims to enhance college and career readiness among high school students in Louisiana by implementing transition courses for those who do not meet certain college readiness standards. The bill mandates the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to work alongside public school authorities and postsecondary education management boards to identify students with academic weaknesses in English and mathematics. By the 2018-2019 school year, these students will have the opportunity to enroll in transition courses aimed at helping them achieve readiness for college-level coursework by the time they graduate from high school.
Sentiment
Support for SB190 appears to be strong, with a unanimous Senate vote of 33 to 0, indicating bipartisan consensus on the need for increased academic support for students. Lawmakers seem to acknowledge the importance of addressing academic weaknesses early, which they believe is essential to ensuring students’ future success in higher education and their subsequent careers. The discussion suggests a shared commitment to equipping students with the necessary skills for postsecondary education.
Contention
While there seems to be overall support for the bill and its objectives, the potential challenges lie in its implementation. Schools will require adequate resources and training to effectively roll out these transition courses, and there may be concerns about how such programs fit into the existing curriculum. Some educators and stakeholders might express reservations about the effectiveness and execution of these courses, questioning whether they truly address the varied needs of students or inadvertently lead to additional pressures on students who may already be struggling in their academic pursuits.
Requires high school governing authorities to pay the cost of certain postsecondary remedial and developmental coursework required of public high school graduates. (gov sig) (EG INCREASE LF EX See Note)
Relating to the assessment of public school students for college readiness and developmental education courses to prepare students for college-level coursework.
Eliminates provisions relative to LEAP, iLeap, end of course testing, and the graduation exit exam for students in public schools (OR SEE FISC NOTE EX)
Provides relative to reimbursement to public postsecondary education institutions for dual enrollment programs and remedial education courses (OR SEE FISC NOTE LF EX)