Permits parents of public school students to opt out of certain LEAP tests
Impact
If passed, HB 901 would explicitly prohibit schools and school districts from imposing penalties on students whose parents choose not to allow their participation in state assessments. This includes not allowing students to suffer consequences such as withholding credits for graduation or denying access to extracurricular activities. The law aims to ensure that educational institutions do not adversely impact students for choices made by their parents in the interest of their children's education.
Summary
House Bill 901 seeks to empower parents of public school students in Louisiana by allowing them to opt out of certain LEAP (Louisiana Educational Assessment Program) tests. This legislation aims to reinforce parental authority in educational decisions, recognizing that parents have the fundamental right to direct their children's education. The bill is rooted in various United States Supreme Court decisions that emphasize parental rights regarding upbringing and education, and expresses the view that schools should not face accountability issues based on parental decisions regarding participation in assessments.
Sentiment
The general sentiment surrounding HB 901 reflects a strong alignment with parental rights advocates, who support the notion that parents should have control over their children's educational experiences, free from undue state interference. Supporters view this bill favorably, suggesting it serves to reaffirm and enhance parental authority within the public education system. However, there may be concerns from some educational stakeholders about the implications of such a shift, particularly regarding student accountability and educational standards.
Contention
While the bill is largely presented as a means of protecting parental rights, some discussions may arise regarding its potential consequences for the overall accountability of public schools. Critics could argue that allowing students to opt out of assessments may lead to gaps in educational data, thereby affecting the evaluation of school performance and hindering efforts to provide adequate resources where needed. The bill encapsulates a broader debate on the balance between parental authority and educational accountability.
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)
Prohibits penalizing public school students, teachers, schools, or school systems for students not participating in certain Spring 2015 state assessments
Prohibits certain public high school students from being administered tests pursuant to La. Educational Assessment Program or the La. school and district accountability system with certain exceptions
Provides relative to the Student Scholarships for Educational Excellence Program, parent petitions for certain schools to be transferred to the RSD, charter school authorizers, and course providers (EN INCREASE LF EX See Note)
Provides for determinations for grade level promotion of certain students with exceptionalities regarding performance on state tests and provides for calculations of school performance scores relative to such students
Requires public school governing authorities and public schools to post on their websites laws pertaining to parental access to instructional materials and the Parents' Bill of Rights (EN SEE FISC NOTE LF EX See Note)