If successful, SR179 would lead to a thorough review and potential overhaul of the MFP formula that dictates how education funding is allocated across public schools in Louisiana. This could have significant implications for how resources are distributed at the local level, especially for schools in underserved communities. By demanding an analysis of both costs and funding sources, the resolution aims to facilitate better financial planning and resource allocation for education, which is essential for enhancing educational outcomes in the state.
Summary
Senate Resolution No. 179 (SR179) urges the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) to reconvene the Minimum Foundation Program (MFP) task force. The primary goal of this task force is to determine the actual costs involved in providing public education in Louisiana and to identify potential funding mechanisms that will allow school systems to cover these costs. The resolution emphasizes the importance of ensuring adequate funding for public education, as mandated by the state constitution, and underscores that all students should have equal opportunities to thrive academically and socially.
Sentiment
The general sentiment surrounding SR179 seems supportive, particularly among education advocates who view the reconvening of the MFP task force as an opportunity to address ongoing funding issues. However, there may also be concerns about state-level decisions overshadowing local educational needs. Supporters argue that this action is crucial for better aligning educational funding with the real costs of providing quality education, while critics might contend that it falls short of ensuring community input into funding decisions.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding SR179 could arise from differing opinions on funding adequacy and equity. Some stakeholders might question whether the proposed measures will truly lead to improved educational equity across diverse populations. Additionally, debates may surface regarding the composition of the task force, particularly concerning the representation of various educational and community stakeholders, to ensure everyone's interests are adequately considered in the review process.
Requests that the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education reconvene a Minimum Foundation Program task force to determine the actual cost of public education and identify potential funding mechanisms
Requests that the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education reconvene a Minimum Foundation Program task force to determine the actual cost of public education and identify potential funding mechanisms
Requests that the State Bd. of Elementary and Secondary Education reconvene a minimum foundation program task force to determine the actual cost of public education and identify potential funding mechanisms
Requests that the State Bd. of Elementary and Secondary Education reconvene a minimum foundation program task force to determine the actual cost of public education and identify potential funding mechanisms
Requests BESE to convene a minimum foundation program task force to further examine the actual costs of educating a student in Louisiana public elementary and secondary schools.
Urges and requests BESE to recognize and include increased per pupil funding as part of FY 2013-2014 base per pupil funding and to maintain at least that combined per pupil amount for FY 2014-2015 MFP
Requests BESE to adopt adjustments to the MFP formula to ensure that school districts impacted by Hurricane Laura do not lose funding during the 2020-2021 fiscal year due to decreases in student enrollment.
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 the Louisiana Workforce Commission and the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs to study employment practices and professional licensing requirements to benefit veterans in the workforce
Creates a task force to study meaningful oversight of the professional healthcare licensing boards statutorily created within the Department of Health and Hospitals.