Repeals requirement that students pursuing a career diploma take the ACT or WorkKeys test and prohibits requiring any student to take any ACT assessment
Impact
The passage of HB 942 would significantly alter the landscape of student assessments in Louisiana, particularly for those pursuing career diplomas. By removing the mandate for the ACT and WorkKeys, the bill may reduce pressure on students and schools while potentially increasing the number of students opting for career-focused education. However, it could also raise questions about the accountability measures in place to ensure the quality and effectiveness of vocational programs in the absence of standardized assessments.
Summary
House Bill 942 seeks to repeal the existing requirement for high school students pursuing a career diploma to take the ACT or WorkKeys tests. The bill aims to prohibit any regulations or policies from the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) that would mandate these assessments for students. The motivation behind this proposal may be rooted in the belief that standardized testing can be an unnecessary barrier for students focusing on vocational training rather than traditional academic paths.
Sentiment
The general sentiment surrounding this bill appears to be supportive among advocates for educational reform and those emphasizing vocational training. Supporters likely argue that standardized tests do not align with the needs of all students, especially those oriented toward career skills rather than academic credentials. Critics, though not extensively documented in the provided sources, might point out that removing standardized assessments could lead to less measurable accountability for educational outcomes.
Contention
While HB 942 presents a shift toward more flexible educational assessments, it may also spark discussions around the adequacy of current measures for evaluating student readiness for the workforce. The absence of standardized testing may concern some stakeholders who view such assessments as essential for maintaining educational standards and accountability. This balance between flexibility and accountability is likely to remain a point of contention as discussions around educational reforms continue.
Exempts students who attain certain scores on the English and math sections of the ACT from end-of-course testing and allows career diploma students to take WorkKeys or the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery in lieu of the ACT
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
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)