Designates May 8 through 12, 2017, as Louisiana Charter Schools Week in Louisiana.
Impact
By officially recognizing this week, the state legislature furthers its commitment to promoting educational reforms and expanding opportunities for all students in Louisiana. The resolution points out that charter schools have significantly increased the options available to parents and students, positively impacting the educational landscape by improving access to high-quality education for diverse populations. This week is intended to celebrate the successes of charter schools and raise awareness about their benefits in the educational sector.
Summary
Senate Resolution 92 (SR92) aims to designate May 8 through 12, 2017, as Louisiana Charter Schools Week. This resolution acknowledges the role of charter schools in the state's education system as independent public schools that provide families with choices while maintaining accountability based on performance. The resolution reflects the growth and achievements of Louisiana's charter schools over the past decade, emphasizing their positive contributions to public education in the state.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SR92 is generally positive, as it aligns with the ongoing efforts to enhance the public education system in Louisiana. Education advocates, parents, and various stakeholders view the acknowledgment of Charter Schools Week as an important celebration of increased educational choice and innovation within the public school system. However, there may be some voices of contention regarding the merits of charter schools versus traditional public schools, yet the resolution seeks to uplift the charter school model above all competition.
Contention
While the resolution promotes charter schools by highlighting their success and operational autonomy, debates about the implications of charter schools on funding and resources for traditional public schools continue. Critics of charter schools often argue about the potential diversion of funds from established public schools, which could create disparities in educational resources. Nonetheless, SR92 advances the narrative that charter schools contribute positively to student learning outcomes and ensure access to educational opportunities across various demographics.
Recognizes Tuesday, May 16, 2017, as School Choice Day at the state capitol and encourages all Louisianians to learn more about school choice programs.
Requests that the Bd. of Regents and the State Bd. of Elementary and Secondary Education, with the Taylor Foundation, La. Office of Student Financial Assistance, public postsecondary education management boards, and certain others, study certain issues relative to TOPS
Requests the Louisiana Workforce Commission and the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs to study employment practices and professional licensing requirements to benefit veterans in the workforce
Creates a task force to study meaningful oversight of the professional healthcare licensing boards statutorily created within the Department of Health and Hospitals.