Louisiana House Bill HCR11

Louisiana 2021 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/12/21
• Refer: 4/13/21
• Report Pass: 4/22/21
• Engrossed: 4/27/21
• Refer: 4/28/21
• Report Pass: 5/17/21
• Passed: 5/26/21

Caption

Requests the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to develop a plan for providing school literacy coaches for students in kindergarten through second grade in elementary schools identified as needing improvement

Impact

The adoption of HCR11 is expected to significantly impact the state's educational framework, particularly for underperforming elementary schools. The resolution supports efforts to bridge literacy gaps that have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and recent natural disasters. With an appropriation of two million dollars for developing a K-2 literacy coaching model and an outlined need for an annual funding increase of fifteen million dollars, HCR11 aims to enhance educational resources and improve student outcomes in early literacy skills across the state.

Summary

House Concurrent Resolution No. 11 (HCR11) urges the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) to develop a comprehensive plan aimed at providing school literacy coaches in elementary schools that have been identified as needing improvement. The resolution highlights the need for focused literacy instruction for students in kindergarten through second grade and sets a timeline for implementation within the 2022-2023 school year. The impetus for this initiative stems from recommendations made by the Louisiana Early Literacy Commission, which stressed the importance of effective reading instruction for children from birth through third grade.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HCR11 appears to be largely positive, with a consensus among legislators on the critical need for improved literacy education. Supporters express optimism that the implementation of literacy coaches will foster better reading skills and educational performance among young students, particularly in areas identified as needing urgent assistance. This initiative is seen as a proactive step toward ensuring that children have access to the necessary resources and support to succeed academically in their early years.

Contention

Although HCR11 enjoys broad support, potential points of contention may arise around the allocation of funding and the effectiveness of the proposed literacy coaching model. Critics may question whether the funding levels are sufficient to meet the needs outlined in the commission's recommendations, especially in light of the significant gaps created by recent crises. Furthermore, the effectiveness of the employed teaching methods and the training provided to literacy coaches could also be scrutinized as stakeholders evaluate the long-term success of this initiative.