Includes students educated in secure facilities under the jurisdiction of the office of juvenile justice in the MFP. (8/15/10)
Impact
By amending R.S. 17:100.1, the bill establishes that alternative schools located in secure care facilities will be recognized as public elementary or secondary schools. This recognition allows for the allocation of state and local funds based on the same formula applied to traditional public schools, facilitating resources aimed at enhancing educational opportunities for marginalized student populations. As a result, it aims to bolster the educational framework for individuals who may face significant barriers due to their circumstances.
Summary
Senate Bill 285 seeks to amend existing Louisiana law to include students educated in secure care facilities under the jurisdiction of the office of juvenile justice in the Minimum Foundation Program (MFP). This inclusion ensures that these students, who are typically adjudicated or in custody, receive educational funding particularly tailored to their situation. The bill aims to provide equitable resources for these students as part of the public education system, thereby aligning their funding with that of other students in the state.
Sentiment
The sentiment around SB 285 appears to be largely positive among advocates for juvenile education and reform. Supporters of the bill emphasize the importance of providing equal educational opportunities for all students, regardless of their background or circumstances. However, stakeholders also raise concerns about the effective implementation of the funding and the actual educational performance of these facilities, indicating a level of skepticism about whether the inclusion will lead to meaningful improvements in educational outcomes.
Contention
While the bill is primarily aimed at benefiting students in secure care facilities, the potential contention lies in debates regarding funding allocation and the state’s ability to manage the specific educational needs of these facilities. Critics may argue whether transferring local funds to the office of juvenile justice could detract from the financial resources available to local school systems, potentially leading to disparities or less support for other educational initiatives in their districts.
Prohibits inclusion of performance data related to students educated in office of juvenile residential centers, justice detention centers, or office of juvenile justice facilities in the school or district performance scores of the public school system where such centers or facilities are located. (8/15/10)
Requests the Dept. of Public Safety and Corrections to study laws and policies relative to benefits, including sick leave, for teachers at facilities under the jurisdiction of the office of juvenile justice who are injured or disabled as a result of assault or battery while acting in their official capacity
Provides for legislative approval of adjustments to the Minimum Foundation Program (MFP) formula adopted by the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education on October 14, 2020 (Item #4) (OR INCREASE GF EX See Note)
Requires BESE to transfer MFP funds to entities providing instruction to certain students preparing to take the General Education Development test. (8/1/12)