Exempts students with dyslexia from certain literacy examinations and provides for alternative progress monitoring tests. (gov sig) (EN SEE FISC NOTE LF EX)
Impact
The passage of SB 72 will significantly alter state education policy by providing an alternative route for monitoring the progress of students diagnosed with dyslexia. This bill recognizes the challenges these students face under the standard literacy screening requirements, allowing for assessments that are more appropriate to their learning needs. Additionally, the bill requires the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to adopt regulations to facilitate the implementation of this new assessment framework, further embedding this change into the state's educational structure.
Summary
Senate Bill 72 aims to amend existing laws regarding the educational assessment of students with dyslexia in Louisiana. The bill exempts these students from certain literacy screeners and mandates that schools instead administer a nationally norm-referenced test to assess specific skills such as phonological awareness and oral reading fluency. By implementing these provisions, the intention is to create a more tailored approach to literacy assessment that caters to the unique needs of students with dyslexia.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SB 72 appears to be supportive, particularly among educators and advocates for students with dyslexia. The bill reflects a growing recognition of the need for customized educational approaches that consider the diverse needs of learners. By exempting dyslexic students from standard literacy screeners, proponents believe that schools will be better equipped to offer effective support and interventions. However, there may also be concerns regarding the adequacy and effectiveness of the new assessment methods proposed under the legislation.
Contention
While SB 72 is largely viewed in a positive light, there are points of contention regarding implementation. Critics may raise concerns about the quality and alignment of the nationally norm-referenced tests that will replace the traditional screeners. They might question whether these assessments will adequately capture the necessary data to support students' literacy development. Moreover, the requirement for the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to establish new rules could lead to bureaucratic delays or challenges in uniformity across districts, potentially impacting students differently based on local administrations.
Prohibits promotion to the fourth grade of certain students whose reading deficiencies have not been remedied by the end of the third grade (EN INCREASE LF EX See Note)
Exempts certain research and development tax credit recipients from detailed examinations by the Department of Economic Development (EN SEE FISC NOTE GF EX See Note)
Provides with respect to the applicability of the additional property tax exemptions for certain veterans with disabilities (EN SEE FISC NOTE LF RV See Note)