Louisiana House Bill HB379

Louisiana 2014 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/10/14
• Refer: 3/10/14

Caption

Permits local school boards to develop and implement curriculum standards in lieu of state content standards

Impact

If enacted, HB 379 would significantly impact the regulatory framework governing educational standards in Louisiana. It would amend existing laws to grant local school boards the option to diverge from state mandates, as long as their standards are of equal or greater rigor compared to those set at the state level. This creative flexibility is intended to better cater educational approaches to the unique needs of local communities, potentially leading to a variety of educational experiences across different districts.

Summary

House Bill 379 aims to shift the educational governance in Louisiana, particularly concerning curriculum standards for public schools. This bill allows local school boards to develop and implement their own curriculum standards for required subjects, instead of being mandated to follow the state content standards created by the state Department of Education. By proposing this change, the bill intends to provide local education authorities with more autonomy in determining the educational content their students receive.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 379 appears to be mixed. Proponents argue that the bill will empower local control, enabling communities to tailor their educational programs to better serve their students. They believe that localized standards could lead to improved educational outcomes. On the opposite side, critics argue that this approach may result in disparities in education quality across the state, possibly leading to a lack of uniformity in educational attainment levels. They fear that such a fragmented system could undermine statewide educational goals and accountability.

Contention

Notable points of contention in discussions about HB 379 include concerns over equity in education. Opponents assert that allowing local control may worsen existing inequalities, as some districts may lack the resources or expertise to develop comprehensive standards. Additionally, there are worries that this measure could encourage a 'race to the bottom' where some school boards might cut corners to meet their own standards without adhering to the rigor required at the state level. This debate highlights the tension between the desire for localized education solutions and the need for cohesive standards that ensure all students have access to quality education.