Requests a study relative to the feasibility and advisability of allowing Anatomy and Physiology to satisfy certain requirements for high school graduation and qualification for Taylor Opportunity Program for Students awards
Impact
If adopted, the findings from the study requested by HR154 could result in significant changes to state education laws concerning high school graduation requirements. Specifically, the resolution calls into question the alignment of graduation criteria with the core curriculum necessary for TOPS eligibility. Should the study recommend reinstating Anatomy and Physiology as a qualifying course, it could enhance educational opportunities for students and potentially increase enrollment in health-related career paths.
Summary
House Resolution 154 (HR154) is a legislative measure aimed at urging relevant educational bodies in Louisiana to conduct a study on the feasibility of allowing an Anatomy and Physiology course to satisfy certain requirements for high school graduation and eligibility for the Taylor Opportunity Program for Students (TOPS) awards. The resolution recognizes that Anatomy and Physiology is a rigorous science course that is essential for students who intend to pursue careers in healthcare, and that its removal from the fulfillment list for graduation and TOPS is concerning.
Sentiment
Overall, the sentiment surrounding HR154 appears positive, particularly among educators and advocates for healthcare education. Supporters likely view the initiative as an important step toward preserving valuable educational pathways. The measure seems to foster collaboration among various educational institutions, which can be seen as a commitment to student success and broader access to educational resources in health sciences.
Contention
While the resolution enjoys broad support, potential contention may arise regarding its implementation and alignment with existing curriculum standards. Teachers and school administrators may have differing opinions on whether the demands of such a science course could be met within current educational frameworks. Additionally, while many advocate for the inclusion of comprehensive science coursework, any changes to graduation requirements may require careful balancing with other educational policy priorities.
Requests a study relative to allowing Anatomy and Physiology to count in addition to, rather than as a substitute for, Biology II for Taylor Opportunity Program for Students (TOPS) award qualification and high school graduation
Provides relative to courses that satisfy certain requirements relative to high school diplomas and Taylor Opportunity Program for Students (TOPS) awards (OR NO IMPACT See Note)
Provides relative to high school graduation requirements and Taylor Opportunity Program for Students (TOPS) core curriculum requirements (EN NO IMPACT GF EX See Note)
Requests that the Bd. of Regents and the State Bd. of Elementary and Secondary Education study the possibility of allowing a course in African American Studies to satisfy certain curriculum requirements
Requests DOE to study the feasibility of establishing AP Computer Science as an equivalent advanced mathematics course for purposes of satisfying high school graduation and TOPS eligibility requirements.
Requests the Bd. of Regents to study and report on certain issues relative to the high school core curriculum requirements for students to be eligible for a TOPS Opportunity, Performance, or Honors award
Subjects students who complete approved home study programs and satisfy certain academic requirements to the same ACT requirements as graduates of public and approved nonpublic high schools for qualification for a Taylor Opportunity Program for Students award (EG INCREASE GF EX See Note)
Urges and requests the Board of Regents and the state Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to include computer coding and American Sign Language as course equivalents for TOPS core curriculum and high school graduation requirements.