Provides relative to the grade point average required to obtain certain TOPS awards (OR SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)
Impact
The implementation of HB 905 is expected to significantly affect the eligibility of students graduating from Louisiana high schools. By requiring a higher academic performance to qualify for state-sponsored awards, it could potentially limit access for many students who may have previously qualified under the existing lower standards. This legislative move seeks to elevate the academic rigor associated with the awards but may also restrict financial support for students who may be on the cusp of meeting the new requirements.
Summary
House Bill 905 proposes adjustments to the grade point average (GPA) requirements for students seeking awards under the Taylor Opportunity Program for Students (TOPS) in Louisiana. The bill aims to raise the minimum GPA thresholds necessary for students to qualify for Opportunity, Performance, and Honors Awards. Specifically, the minimum GPA for the Opportunity Award would change from 2.50 to 3.00, the Performance Award would rise from 3.00 to 3.25, and the Honors Award would increase from 3.00 to 3.50. This amendment is particularly aimed at reinforcing the academic standards for educational awards tied to state funding.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HB 905 appears to be mixed. Proponents argue that higher GPA requirements for TOPS awards will promote a culture of academic excellence and motivate students to perform better in their studies. They believe this is crucial for maintaining the integrity and objectives of the TOPS program. Conversely, opponents raise concerns that increasing the bar could disenfranchise students who might struggle with academic performance due to various factors, including socioeconomic status and access to educational resources. This could disproportionately affect lower-income students and those attending under-resourced schools.
Contention
A notable point of contention regarding HB 905 lies in the debate over educational equity. Critics argue that while the intent of raising academic standards is commendable, it risks perpetuating existing disparities within the education system. They express concern that the bill may place undue stress on students and families, as higher academic requirements could make it more difficult for students from challenging backgrounds to access vital scholarships necessary for college attendance. The discussion underscores larger issues related to educational policy and support structures in place for students across the state.
Revises core curriculum requirements and the method of calculating the grade point average for TOPS awards. (gov sig) (EN SEE FISC NOTE GF EX See Note)
Creates a new Taylor Opportunity Program for Students (TOPS) award, the TOPS Transfer Award, and raises grade point average and ACT score required for initial eligibility for a TOPS Opportunity Award (EG DECREASE GF EX See Note)
Requires schools to use a 10-point grading scale to assign grades used in the calculation of the minimum grade point average required for initial award eligibility (EN SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)
Raises the minimum grade point average required for initial eligibility for a Taylor Opportunity Program for Students (TOPS) Opportunity Award (EG DECREASE GF EX See Note)
Revises academic requirements for initial eligibility to receive certain TOPS awards and allocates additional funding to the La. GO Grant program. (gov sig) (EG -$24,000,000 GF EX See Note)
Raises grade point average required to maintain eligibility for the Taylor Opportunity Program for Students (TOPS) Opportunity Award (EG DECREASE GF EX See Note)
Provides that a five-point scale shall be used when calculating the grade point average for certain honors courses and talented courses. (gov sig) (EN +$1,240,000 GF EX See Note)