Requires the state Dept. of Education to develop an accountability system for nonpublic schools participating in the voucher program and requires compliance with the system by such schools (OR SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)
Impact
This change impacts the existing framework of the Student Scholarships for Educational Excellence Program by introducing more stringent requirements for nonpublic schools. The bill seeks to ensure that nonpublic institutions participating in the voucher program are subject to evaluations akin to those of public schools, which include high-stakes testing and grading systems. This could change the educational landscape by potentially limiting the number of nonpublic schools that can participate in the voucher system, as only those deemed effective by the new criteria will be eligible.
Summary
House Bill 836 mandates the Louisiana Department of Education to create and enforce an accountability system for nonpublic schools participating in the state’s voucher program. The legislation specifies that these schools must meet certain eligibility criteria to remain part of the program, primarily focusing on their effectiveness as determined by comparable standards used for public school accountability. Schools that do not comply with these standards will face repercussions regarding their participation in the program.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HB 836 appears to be mixed, with some legislators and stakeholders supporting the accountability measures as a step towards ensuring quality education across both public and nonpublic schools. Opponents may argue that the bill imposes undue burdens on nonpublic institutions. This divergence in opinion reflects broader national debates on school choice, educational funding, and the role of accountability in educational systems.
Contention
A notable point of contention emerges from the balance between accountability and the freedom of nonpublic schools. Critics might express concerns that this bill could infringe upon the operational autonomy of these institutions by subjecting them to a state-designed accountability system that could stifle innovation and diversity in educational approaches. Whether the accountability imposed by HB 836 truly enhances educational outcomes or creates an unnecessary regulatory environment is likely to be a significant aspect of discussions in the legislature.
Requires the state Dept. of Education to develop an accountability system for nonpublic schools participating in the voucher program and requires compliance with the system by such schools (OR NO IMPACT See Note)
Requests that the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education study the feasibility of developing an accountability system for nonpublic schools participating in the voucher program comparable to the accountability system for public schools
Requires teachers in all public schools and in nonpublic schools participating in the voucher program to take the state assessments aligned to the Common Core State Standards prior to administering such assessments to students
Requires teachers in all public and nonpublic schools participating in the voucher program to take the state assessments aligned with the state content standards
Provides relative to implementation of Common Core State Standards and the development of curriculum guides prior to such implementation for public schools and nonpublic schools participating in the voucher program