Requests that the state Department of Education and the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education prohibit the use of certain "edu-tainment" videos as educational tools in classrooms
Impact
If adopted, HR323 would significantly influence the types of educational materials endorsed for classroom use in Louisiana. By calling for the prohibition of 'edu-tainment' videos considered discriminatory or politically biased, the resolution aims to create a more balanced educational environment that aligns with values of inclusivity and factual accuracy in history teaching. This underscores a deeper concern regarding educational standards and the role of media in shaping students' perceptions of society.
Summary
House Resolution 323, introduced by Representative Jordan and others, calls on the Louisiana Department of Education and the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to prohibit the use of certain 'edu-tainment' children's videos as educational tools in classrooms. This initiative stems from concerns about the content of videos produced by PragerU, a conservative media organization known for promoting specific political viewpoints and narratives that critics label as misleading regarding U.S. history, particularly aspects of racism and slavery.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HR323 appears highly polarized. Proponents argue for the necessity of protecting schoolchildren from biased and potentially damaging content, viewing the resolution as a safeguard for educational integrity. In contrast, opponents perceive this action as a form of censorship that could stifle free speech and limit diverse perspectives in education, raising concerns about the implications for academic freedom and intellectual discourse within schools.
Contention
HR323 has sparked significant debate, particularly regarding the influence of conservative media in education and the balance between promoting educational content and preventing indoctrination. Some legislators and educators are apprehensive about statewide mandates that dictate educational resources, arguing such measures could hinder teachers' autonomy and their ability to address complex historical and social topics comprehensively. The discussion reveals a broader conflict about the intersection of education, politics, and the ideological frameworks through which history and social studies are taught.
Requests the state Department of Education, in consultation with the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education, to study pathways to the teaching profession
Requests the Louisiana Department of Education and the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to provide specific information in a report to the Senate committees on finance and education relative to cameras in certain classrooms.
Requests that the state Department of Education revise the proposed early learning and development standards and submit its version to the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education for consideration
Requests that the state Dept. of Education revise the proposed early learning and development standards and submit its version to the State Bd. of Elementary and Secondary Education for consideration
Requests the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education, in collaboration with the state Department of Education, to develop a policy relative to the issuance of posthumous high school diplomas to deceased high school students
Increases the amount of the individual income tax deductions for elementary and secondary school tuition, educational expenses for home-schooled children, and educational expenses for a quality public education (EN -$2,200,000 GF RV See Note)
Requests the Louisiana Department of Education and the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to submit an annual report to the Senate committees on Education and Finance on how differentiated teacher pay, contained in the Minimum Foundation Program formula, is applied and distributed in a fair and equitable fashion.