The proposed legislation, known as "The Louisiana Numeracy and Excellence (LANE) Act," aims to enhance teacher certification and professional development in numeracy for educators teaching kindergarten through eighth grade. Key amendments include the requirement for teacher certification applicants to complete specific coursework in foundational numeracy and to undergo professional development training in numeracy competencies. The bill mandates that all fourth through eighth grade teachers complete an approved professional development course by August 1, 2025, and kindergarten through third grade teachers by August 1, 2027. Additionally, new teachers in these grades must provide documentation of completed training within two years of employment.

The legislation also introduces the provision for numeracy coaches to support mathematics teachers in grades K-3, ensuring they receive on-site training and feedback to improve instruction. The State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education is tasked with adopting rules to implement these provisions, and funding for these initiatives may come from federal and state sources if allowable under relevant guidelines. Notably, the bill clarifies that it will not extend teachers' work hours and allows for stipends for training completed outside of regular work hours.

Statutes affected:
HB321 Original: 17:13(A)(2)
HB321 Engrossed: 17:13(A)(2)
HB321 Enrolled: 17:13(A)(2)
HB321 Act : 17:13(A)(2)