If successful, SR179 would lead to a thorough review and potential overhaul of the MFP formula that dictates how education funding is allocated across public schools in Louisiana. This could have significant implications for how resources are distributed at the local level, especially for schools in underserved communities. By demanding an analysis of both costs and funding sources, the resolution aims to facilitate better financial planning and resource allocation for education, which is essential for enhancing educational outcomes in the state.
Summary
Senate Resolution No. 179 (SR179) urges the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) to reconvene the Minimum Foundation Program (MFP) task force. The primary goal of this task force is to determine the actual costs involved in providing public education in Louisiana and to identify potential funding mechanisms that will allow school systems to cover these costs. The resolution emphasizes the importance of ensuring adequate funding for public education, as mandated by the state constitution, and underscores that all students should have equal opportunities to thrive academically and socially.
Sentiment
The general sentiment surrounding SR179 seems supportive, particularly among education advocates who view the reconvening of the MFP task force as an opportunity to address ongoing funding issues. However, there may also be concerns about state-level decisions overshadowing local educational needs. Supporters argue that this action is crucial for better aligning educational funding with the real costs of providing quality education, while critics might contend that it falls short of ensuring community input into funding decisions.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding SR179 could arise from differing opinions on funding adequacy and equity. Some stakeholders might question whether the proposed measures will truly lead to improved educational equity across diverse populations. Additionally, debates may surface regarding the composition of the task force, particularly concerning the representation of various educational and community stakeholders, to ensure everyone's interests are adequately considered in the review process.
Provides for the methodology the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education uses to count students for purposes of the minimum foundation program (MFP) formula (OR +$100,000 GF EX See Note)
Requests that the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education study the history of racism, racism's effects on public education, and anti-racism education and creates a task force to develop recommendations for implementing such education
Creates a study group to study truancy, including potentially adjusting the student count methodology used in the public school funding formula in the effort to address truancy
Constitutional amendment to grant the St. George community school system in East Baton Rouge Parish the same authority granted to parishes to operate a school system. (2/3 - CA13s1(A)) (EN +$2,457,390 GF EX See Note)
Requests BESE to make accessible to athletic directors and coaches a training program covering important safety information for the prevention and treatment of injuries in student athletes.
(Constitutional Amendment) Provides relative to the application of state monies to the unfunded accrued liability of the Teachers' Retirement System of La. (EN DECREASE SD RV See Note)
Requests the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to develop and provide online educational resources to public school students for the 2020-2021 school year.
Requires school systems to provide a salary increase for teachers and other school employees using savings attributable to the state's payment of certain unfunded accrued liability of the Teachers' Retirement System of Louisiana (EN INCREASE GF EX See Note)
Commends and recognizes Film Louisiana for its contributions to economic development and designates April 15, 2026, as Film Louisiana Day at the Louisiana State Capitol
Requests the health profession licensing boards to work with the commissioner of administration to identify funds from their cash and cash equivalent year-end balances that can be transferred into the state general fund.