Louisiana Senate Bill SB145

Louisiana 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/2/22
• Refer: 3/2/22
• Refer: 3/14/22
• Report Pass: 4/18/22
• Engrossed: 4/20/22
• Refer: 4/21/22
• Report Pass: 5/11/22
• Enrolled: 6/2/22
• Vetoed: 6/27/22

Caption

Authorizes certain charter school proposals to be made directly to BESE. (gov sig)

Impact

The bill will amend existing legislation governing charter schools, particularly affecting R.S. 17:3983 and R.S. 17:3991.1. By allowing direct submission of certain charter proposals to BESE, it changes the dynamics of how local educational governance interacts with state regulations. Critics argue this could undermine local control and parental input concerning educational choices, as local boards will have less authority to vet proposals that could significantly affect their communities.

Summary

Senate Bill 145 seeks to make significant changes to the process of charter school proposals in Louisiana. Specifically, the bill allows certain charter proposals to be made directly to the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) rather than initially being submitted to local school boards. This aims to expedite the charter application process, especially for those proposals that include corporate partnerships, which can be made as Type 2 charter schools straight to BESE. The legislative intent is to enhance partnerships between public education and corporate entities, believed to benefit both the state's educational system and its students.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 145 appears mixed. Proponents believe it will facilitate quicker access to innovative educational models and corporate support for schools, potentially driving improvements in student outcomes. On the other hand, opponents express concern that this shift diminishes the power of local school boards and the voices of parents, suggesting a trend towards centralizing educational authority at the state level. The discussion reflects broader debates within the state about the role of corporate entities in public education and the prioritization of state interests over local needs.

Contention

Main points of contention regarding SB 145 center on the implications for governance and accountability in education. Critics are worried that allowing corporate-backed proposals to bypass local scrutiny could lead to a curriculum and policy direction that do not align with the specific needs of communities. There are fears about the potential for profit motives overshadowing educational objectives, which could compromise the quality of education provided to students in Louisiana.