Louisiana Senate Bill SR177

Louisiana 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/31/22
• Passed: 6/1/22

Caption

Requests the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education, the Department of Education, and local school governing authorities to support and implement effective, evidence-based, high-impact tutoring programs to combat COVID-19 learning loss.

Impact

If adopted, SR177 would lead to increased focus and resources directed toward effective tutoring initiatives, potentially enhancing learning outcomes for students who have fallen behind during the pandemic. The resolution references the substantial federal funding allocated for educational relief under the American Rescue Plan, highlighting that a significant portion remains unspent, particularly in areas designated for tutoring and enhanced learning support. By fostering the implementation of such programs, the resolution aims to ensure that these funds are utilized effectively to help mitigate the learning gap exacerbated by COVID-19-related interruptions.

Summary

Senate Resolution 177 urges the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE), the Department of Education, and local school governing bodies to implement evidence-based, high-impact tutoring programs aimed at addressing significant learning losses caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. This resolution reflects a growing concern regarding educational setbacks affecting students, particularly those from low-income backgrounds. The resolution outlines that the pandemic has exacerbated existing educational disparities, leading to projected learning losses of up to twelve months for disadvantaged students, a gap that could hinder their academic progress and future opportunities.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SR177 appears generally supportive, as it taps into a shared concern for the educational welfare of students adversely affected by the pandemic. Stakeholders and educational advocates recognize the importance of targeted interventions, like high-dosage tutoring, which research indicates can significantly enhance student achievement. However, there might be challenges related to implementation logistics and ensuring that funds are effectively allocated. There are also concerns regarding the sustainability of such tutoring programs once initial funding phases out.

Contention

While SR177 serves as a call for action and support within the educational sector, it does not contain binding legislative mandates. This raises questions about the uniformity of support across various local governing bodies and school districts. Some may argue that without coercive power, the resolution’s effectiveness depends on the willingness of educational authorities to adopt and implement tutoring programs efficiently. The discourse around this resolution highlights broader issues related to educational equity and the necessity for strategic resource allocation to meet the nuanced needs of students from different socio-economic backgrounds.