Prohibits implementation of the Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers (PARCC) assessments and provides for continuation of La. Educational Assessment Program tests (OR SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)
Impact
If enacted, HB 996 would significantly alter the framework of educational assessments in Louisiana. By prohibiting PARCC assessments and similar tests, the bill would empower local education authorities to develop assessments that are better tailored to state requirements and needs, potentially fostering a more localized approach to student evaluations. The alterations could impact how student performance is measured across various grades, particularly those leading to college and career readiness, as the rigor of existing assessments may be affected by the lack of adherence to national standards.
Summary
House Bill 996 seeks to prohibit the implementation of the Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers (PARCC) assessments in Louisiana. The bill aims to ensure the continuation of the Louisiana Educational Assessment Program (LEAP) tests and states that standards-based assessments in crucial subjects such as English language arts and mathematics will no longer be required to adhere to nationally recognized content standards. This shift reflects an intention to maintain or return to state-centered educational assessment standards, particularly in light of concerns surrounding the effectiveness and relevance of nationally aligned assessments.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HB 996 appears to be mixed, reflecting a broader conference between supporters who argue for local control over education and opponents who advocate for maintaining rigorous, nationally standardized assessments. Proponents, primarily from conservative factions, believe that the bill will aid in preserving state autonomy and address concerns with national standardized tests they perceive as misguided or ineffective. Conversely, opponents worry that diminished testing standards could lead to a decline in educational quality and preparedness for students transitioning to higher education or the workforce.
Contention
Key points of contention include the balance between maintaining high educational standards versus the push for localized control over assessment methodologies. Some legislators argue that assessments like PARCC reinforce necessary educational standards and accountability, while others highlight the need for assessments that reflect local educational priorities and the unique challenges faced by Louisiana's student populations. Additionally, the measure includes provisions for alternate assessments to be administered for students with disabilities, necessitating parental approval for these assessments, which brings yet another layer of discussion regarding inclusivity and tailored education within the framework set by state policy.
Prohibits administration of Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers assessments and provides for continuation of La. Educational Assessment Program tests and the standards on which such tests are based (OR SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)
Prohibits administration of Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers assessments and provides for continuation of La. Educational Assessment Program tests and the standards on which such tests are based (OR SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)
Prohibits the administration of assessments that contain a question proposed or developed by the Partnership for the Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers consortium or any other federally funded consortium of states
Provides relative to contracts by the state Dept. of Education for English language arts and math assessments for the 2015-2016 school year (EN SEE FISC NOTE GF EX See Note)
Provides for implementation of state content standards and assessments subject to legislative approval and permits local school systems to develop and implement content standards in lieu of state standards
Provides for the Educational Excellence for Louisiana Commission to develop content and performance standards, curriculum, and assessments for elementary and secondary education. (gov sig) (OR INCREASE GF EX See Note)
Provides for implementation of state content standards and assessments subject to legislative approval and permits local school systems to develop and implement content standards in lieu of state 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