Louisiana Senate Bill SCR22

Louisiana 2020 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/16/20
• Refer: 5/4/20
• Report Pass: 5/14/20
• Passed: 5/15/20
• Engrossed: 5/15/20
• Refer: 5/18/20

Caption

Requests BESE to suspend statewide standardized assessments for the 2019-2020 school year due to COVID-19.

Impact

If enacted, SCR22 would mean that Louisiana students would not be subjected to standardized assessments for that academic year, effectively waiving the usual accountability measures based on test results. This suspension is aimed at alleviating stress on students and educators during a period of unprecedented disruption in education due to the pandemic. By focusing on health rather than test scores, the bill seeks to adapt the education system to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 crisis.

Summary

SCR22 requests that the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) suspend all statewide standardized assessments for the 2019-2020 school year due to the imminent threat posed by COVID-19. The resolution emphasizes the need to prioritize the health and safety of students, teachers, and school employees over the outcomes of standardized testing during a public health emergency. It highlights the possible negative impact of the pandemic on student performance, given the accompanying anxiety from school closures and the health risks associated with the virus.

Sentiment

The general sentiment around SCR22 is one of understanding and support in light of the public health crisis. It reflects a consensus that student health and well-being should take precedence, especially in an unpredictable environment where traditional education methods are heavily disrupted. Supporters appreciate the foresight of recognizing the emotional and psychological toll the pandemic takes on students, teachers, and families alike.

Contention

While there appears to be strong support for suspending assessments due to health concerns, there is potential contention surrounding the implications of voiding standardized testing results. Critics may argue that suspending assessments could hinder accountability within schools, leading to longer-term educational ramifications as benchmarks for student learning and assessment are altered. Nevertheless, the context of a global pandemic serves as a significant justification for the proposed changes.