Requests the Board of Regents to study the feasibility of updating TOPS reporting requirements.
Impact
The proposed study could lead to a significant impact on state educational policies, as it aims to provide legislators with a clearer picture of how the TOPS program influences student outcomes. By analyzing data such as employment status and industry sectors of TOPS alumni, the Board of Regents could generate valuable insights that inform future amendments to the program. This could result in changes that enhance the effectiveness of TOPS in fulfilling its mission of retaining talented students in Louisiana.
Summary
Senate Resolution No. 10 urges the Board of Regents to assess the feasibility of updating the reporting requirements for the Taylor Opportunity Program for Students (TOPS). This resolution is grounded in the belief that understanding the employment outcomes of TOPS recipients is crucial for informed legislative action. By obtaining data on scholarship recipients' post-graduation employment and residency, legislators aim to ensure that state appropriations are effectively benefiting citizens and contributing to the state's workforce retention efforts.
Sentiment
Overall sentiment regarding SR10 appears to be supportive among educational advocates who believe that data-driven decision-making can improve state educational programs. However, potential concerns could arise about privacy and the implications of sharing recipient data among various state departments, which may elicit debate about the balance between data collection and individual confidentiality.
Contention
While the resolution itself is a request for a study rather than a direct policy change, it could face opposition from those wary of increased governmental oversight on educational programs. Critics might challenge the need for enhanced reporting requirements, arguing that current systems are sufficient, or that additional data collection may burden academic institutions without yielding proportional benefits. The conversation around SR10 reflects broader discussions on educational accountability and the role of state government in overseeing financial aid programs.
Requests the La. Student Financial Assistance Commission, in consultation with the Board of Regents, to study the feasibility of requiring drug testing for students to qualify for a TOPS award
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 DOE to study the feasibility of establishing AP Computer Science as an equivalent advanced mathematics course for purposes of satisfying high school graduation and TOPS eligibility requirements.
Requests that the Board of Regents, in collaboration with the Louisiana Student Financial Assistance Commission, study and make recommendations relative to student financial aid