Prohibits requiring students to pass state-administered end-of-course (LEAP) tests in order to graduate from high school
Impact
The implications of HB 945 are broad, especially concerning how educational success is measured in Louisiana. By removing the passing requirement for state assessments, the bill aims to alleviate pressure on students and educators, potentially allowing a greater focus on coursework and learning outcomes linked to Carnegie units. It addresses longstanding concerns regarding the fairness and effectiveness of standardized testing as an absolute measure of student competency and readiness for high school graduation.
Summary
House Bill 945 seeks to revise the requirements for high school graduation in Louisiana by eliminating the mandate that students must pass state-administered end-of-course (LEAP) tests in order to receive their diplomas. The bill stipulates that students who successfully complete all required Carnegie units for graduation will be awarded a diploma, irrespective of their performance on these standardized assessments. This legislative change represents a significant shift in the assessment and evaluation of student achievement at the high school level.
Sentiment
Sentiment around HB 945 may be mixed. On one end, proponents argue that it promotes educational equity by recognizing that standardized tests do not adequately reflect a student's capabilities or knowledge. They believe that all students should have the opportunity to graduate based on their actual coursework and achievements rather than test scores alone. Conversely, opponents may express concern that this bill undermines accountability and the rigorous standards traditionally upheld by state assessments, suggesting that it could dilute the quality of education and preparedness for post-secondary endeavors.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding HB 945 include debates over students' preparedness for future academic challenges or the workforce if high school graduation is decoupled from standardized testing. Critics might argue that assessments provide essential benchmarks for student progress and that eliminating them could lead to disparities in educational outcomes. The bill touches on broader issues of educational policy, assessment validity, and the balance between accountability and equitable access to educational opportunities.
Requires students to attain a minimum ACT score set by the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education as a prerequisite to high school graduation and prohibits state-administered end-of-course assessments for high school students (OR -$4,300,000 GF EX See Note)
Provides for career coaches to assist public middle and high school students and their parents in developing an individualized graduation plan for each student. (8/1/26)
Requires that schools utilize a nationally normed assessment instead of the LEAP test for purposes of school and district accountability. (gov sig) (OR INCREASE GF EX See Note)
A bill for an act requiring students to pass the United States citizenship and immigration services naturalization civics test as a condition of high school graduation and high school equivalency diplomas.(See HF 165.)