Louisiana 2019 Regular Session

Louisiana House Bill HB337

Introduced
3/28/19  
Introduced
3/28/19  
Refer
3/28/19  
Refer
3/28/19  
Refer
4/8/19  

Caption

Provides relative to teacher and administrator evaluations and related grievance procedures

Impact

Should HB 337 pass, it will effectively restructure how grievance procedures are conducted, ensuring that teachers and administrators have direct access to the evaluation data used against them. The proposed law mandates that designated officials, whether from the local school board or BESE, must ensure evaluations are executed fairly and consistently. Furthermore, the bill guarantees due process by enabling educators to receive representation during grievance hearings, thus enhancing accountability in the evaluation process.

Summary

House Bill 337 addresses the grievance procedures for teachers and administrators who are dissatisfied with their evaluation ratings, particularly those based on observational assessments and value-added models. The bill amends current laws governing evaluations set by the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE), ensuring that local evaluation plans include specific elements such as job descriptions, professional growth plans, and classroom observations. One key aspect of the bill is its emphasis on providing teachers and administrators with a systematic way to contest evaluations they believe to be flawed or misrepresentative.

Sentiment

Sentiment regarding HB 337 is mixed among educators and legislators. Advocates argue that the bill strengthens teachers' rights and ensures fair treatment in the evaluation process, fostering a more supportive environment for educators. Critics, however, express concerns about the additional layers of bureaucracy it introduces, fearing that it may complicate or prolong the grievance process rather than facilitate swift resolutions. This division highlights broader discussions on the balance of power between state educational standards and local school board autonomy.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB 337 focus on the adequacy of existing evaluation processes versus the proposed changes. Supporters believe that enhancing grievance procedures is essential for protecting educators and improving overall educational quality, while skeptics question whether the bill's changes would effectively resolve existing issues or simply add more complexity. The debate involves significant implications for educators at all levels, affecting how evaluations are perceived and managed in Louisiana.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

LA HB1033

Provides relative to evaluation and assessment programs for teachers and administrators (EN SEE FISC NOTE LF EX See Note)

LA HB672

Provides relative to the evaluation of teachers and administrators

LA HB875

Provides relative to the evaluation of teachers and administrators

LA HB890

Provides relative to the evaluation of teachers and administrators (OR +$68,944 GF EX See Note)

LA HB1172

Provides relative to teacher tenure and for evaluation of teachers using multiple indicators and data sources

LA HB995

Provides relative to teacher evaluations (EG +$67,144 GF EX See Note)

LA SB603

Provides relative to teacher tenure, pay-for-performance, and evaluations. (7/1/12) (EG LF EX See Note)

LA HB974

Provides relative to teacher tenure, pay-for-performance, and evaluations (EN SEE FISC NOTE LF EX See Note)

LA HB949

Provides relative to evaluation of teachers and administrators (OR INCREASE LF EX See Note)

LA SB131

Provides relative to evaluation of teachers and administrators. (gov sig)

Similar Bills

TX HB4690

Relating to the grievance procedure used by public schools to address complaints by students or parents.

LA HB982

Provides relative to the process for discharging, demoting, or disciplining a permanent public school teacher

WV HB4829

Modifying definitions of certain school cafeteria personnel

WV SB230

Relating generally to public employees grievance procedure

LA HB987

Provides relative teacher tenure and the removal of teachers

DC PR25-0306

Compensation and Working Conditions Agreement between the Office of the State Superintendent of Education and American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, District Council 20, Local 1959, AFL-CIO Approval Resolution of 2023

VA HB1733

School boards; enrolled students present at meetings, public comment or citizen participation.

TX SB1565

Relating to a school district's grievance procedure and to certain public school requirements and prohibitions regarding instruction and diversity, equity, and inclusion duties and the loss of funding for public schools that fail to comply with those provisions.