Louisiana Senate Bill SB81

Louisiana 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/29/23
• Refer: 3/29/23
• Refer: 4/10/23
• Report Pass: 5/1/23
• Engrossed: 5/10/23
• Refer: 5/11/23
• Report Pass: 5/16/23
• Enrolled: 5/31/23
• Chaptered: 6/6/23
• Passed: 6/6/23

Caption

Provides for the associate educator program. (gov sig) (EN INCREASE LF EX See Note)

Impact

The passage of SB 81 could significantly alter the landscape of teacher recruitment in Louisiana. By allowing individuals with associate degrees to take on teaching roles, the bill seeks to address teacher shortages and provide flexibility in hiring practices for school systems. However, it does impose restrictions such as salary caps, limiting participants to 75% of the average teacher salary and capping the percentage of participating teachers to 10% of the staff. This could ensure that the program enhances educational staffing without undermining existing teacher roles.

Summary

Senate Bill 81 aims to establish an Associate Educator Program in Louisiana that allows individuals with associate's degrees to serve as teachers in public elementary and secondary schools. This legislation is designed to provide a pathway for prospective educators to gain teaching experience while pursuing their bachelor's degree. It sets forth specific criteria for participation, such as enrollment in a teacher education program and age requirements, alongside limitations on the areas in which participants can teach. The program's implementation is contingent on state board regulations to ensure compliance and quality standards.

Sentiment

Sentiment around SB 81 appears to be cautiously positive, as it promises to create opportunities for prospective teachers while addressing staffing challenges in Louisiana's public education system. However, concerns arise regarding the quality of education that associate degree holders may provide, particularly when teaching classes with students identified as having exceptionalities. Stakeholders are likely to weigh the benefits of increased teacher availability against potential compromises in educational standards.

Contention

While there is support for the increased diversity in educator pathways, some contend that SB 81 might dilute teaching standards by permitting less-qualified individuals to instruct students. Critics may argue that the focus should remain on fully qualified teachers with bachelor's degrees, especially in critical classroom settings. Additionally, there may be apprehension surrounding the adequacy of mentorship provisions and evaluative measures for program participants, both of which will be crucial for maintaining educational quality.