Louisiana House Bill HB834

Louisiana 2012 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/12/12
• Refer: 3/12/12

Caption

Eliminates provisions relative to LEAP, iLeap, end of course testing, and the graduation exit exam for students in public schools (OR SEE FISC NOTE EX)

Impact

The removal of these testing requirements will fundamentally alter the landscape of educational assessment in Louisiana. Currently, LEAP and iLeap are critical for evaluating students' abilities against state curriculum standards, serving both as a measure of student progress and as a prerequisite for grade promotion. By discontinuing these evaluations, HB 834 allows schools more flexibility in assessing student performance, but it also raises concerns about maintaining accountability and standards in educational outcomes, potentially impacting long-term academic proficiency among students.

Summary

House Bill 834 seeks to eliminate several provisions associated with public school student assessments in Louisiana. Specifically, the bill removes references to the Louisiana Educational Assessment Program (LEAP), the integrated Louisiana Educational Assessment Program (iLeap), end-of-course testing, and the graduation exit exam. By repealing these established testing mechanisms, the bill aims to change how student progress and proficiency are measured across the state's public education system, signaling a significant shift from current evaluation processes.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding House Bill 834 is divided among educators, lawmakers, and parents. Supporters of the bill argue that the current testing mechanisms create unnecessary pressure on students and do not accurately reflect their capabilities. They advocate for more holistic evaluations that incorporate diverse measures of student success. Conversely, critics fear that eliminating these assessments may erode educational standards, leading to a lack of accountability for schools in delivering quality education and potentially diminishing educational outcomes for students.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the implications of removing standardized assessments from the educational framework. Opponents express concern that this could lead to inconsistencies in educational quality across different districts, where some may implement rigorous standards while others may not. Additionally, the potential for reduced preparation for college or vocational readiness due to the lack of exit exams or standardized testing raises alarms among stakeholders who worry about graduates' competitiveness. Overall, the discussions highlight a tension between educational innovation and the assurance of maintained standards and accountability.