Louisiana House Bill HB486

Louisiana 2010 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/29/10
• Refer: 3/29/10
• Report Pass: 5/12/10
• Engrossed: 5/19/10
• Refer: 5/20/10
• Report Pass: 6/7/10
• Enrolled: 6/18/10
• Chaptered: 6/29/10
• Passed: 6/29/10

Caption

Requires school guidance counselors to complete academic profiles for ninth grade students (EN +$150,000 GF EX See Note)

Impact

The enactment of HB 486 is expected to have a significant impact on public education in Louisiana. By requiring academic profiles, the bill seeks to standardize how guidance counselors guide students in their academic journeys. It adds a layer of accountability, ensuring that students receive personalized advice and support tailored to their aspirations and interests. The annual review of these profiles advocates for ongoing parental involvement, which is likely to enhance student motivating factors and academic performance.

Summary

House Bill 486 mandates that all school guidance counselors in public high schools complete an academic profile for each ninth-grade student. This profile is intended to encompass various aspects of the student's educational and personal goals, including college planning, career exploration, and extracurricular activities. The bill emphasizes the importance of engaging both students and their parents or legal guardians in the profile's creation, fostering a collaborative approach to educational planning. Such measures aim to enhance student support and ensure that transition into high school is well-coordinated.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 486 appears to be largely positive among educational advocates and support organizations. Proponents argue that the bill's provisions will better prepare students for post-secondary education and careers, fostering a more informed and engaged student body. However, some concerns may yet arise about the additional workload placed on guidance counselors and whether adequate resources will be allocated to support these new requirements.

Contention

While the bill itself does not seem to attract significant controversy, the challenge remains in its implementation. Critics may question the feasibility of the bill, especially regarding the training and resources required for guidance counselors to fulfill these obligations effectively. There may also be discussions about how to maintain the balance of educational standards while ensuring that individual student needs are met, especially in schools that are already stretched thin by resource limitations.