Louisiana Senate Bill SB55

Louisiana 2018 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/21/18
• Refer: 2/21/18
• Refer: 3/12/18

Caption

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)

Impact

If enacted, SB55 would fundamentally alter the landscape of education standards in Louisiana. By allowing each school governing authority the right to adopt its own standards, the bill promotes local decision-making and reflects a belief in the ability of communities to tailor education to their unique contexts. Moreover, it introduces a mechanism for the community to engage directly with educational processes, as it requires local school boards to conduct elections on whether to adopt state or locally developed standards upon receiving petitions from constituents. This could lead to a more responsive and localized education system, albeit with potential disparities in educational quality and resources.

Summary

Senate Bill 55 (SB55) aims to grant increased autonomy to public school governing authorities in Louisiana by allowing them to determine their own education content standards and assessments. This proposed legislation shifts the control from the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) and the state Department of Education, which currently mandate the adoption of specific standards such as the Common Core. The bill's intent is to empower local governing bodies to create educational policies that better fit the needs of their respective student populations.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SB55 is mixed. Proponents view the bill as a positive step toward local control and personalization of education, claiming it acknowledges the varied educational needs across different regions. They argue that this approach enhances student engagement and outcomes by allowing local authorities to make decisions that resonate with their communities. Conversely, opponents raise concerns about the risks of a fractured education system where educational quality may vary significantly between districts. They argue that removing mandates for state standards risks educational inequities and may lead to confusion regarding accountability for student performance.

Contention

Despite its intent to empower local governance, SB55 has provoked notable points of contention. Critics argue that the bill undermines the consistency and quality assurance that state-level standards provide. There are fears that without a uniform set of guidelines, students in different districts may receive disparate educational experiences, particularly in critical subject areas. Additionally, the alternative assessment approach proposed by the bill may challenge the state's ability to maintain accountability measures and effectively evaluate student performance across the board.