The bill amends R.S. 17:100.13 to enhance academic support for low-performing students in Louisiana, specifically targeting those in kindergarten through fifth grade who have not achieved mastery in reading or math assessments. It introduces high-dosage tutoring as a key component of expanded academic support, requiring local school boards to develop plans and budgets for these services. The plans must be submitted annually to the state Department of Education for approval, and they must include provisions for high-quality tutoring providers and the use of high-quality instructional materials. The bill emphasizes the importance of consistent and effective tutoring practices, including individualized attention and ongoing assessment of student progress.

Additionally, the bill mandates that local school boards report on various metrics related to the implementation of high-dosage tutoring, including the number of students served, their demographics, and the effectiveness of the tutoring provided. It also establishes definitions for "high-quality tutor" and "high-quality instructional materials," ensuring that tutoring services meet specific standards. The bill clarifies that local school boards are responsible for utilizing available state and federal funds to implement these provisions, and it prohibits the use of student identification for additional support in evaluating teacher performance or school accountability.

Statutes affected:
SB508 Original:
SB508 Engrossed:
SB508 Enrolled:
SB508 Act 771: