Germain Gilson

The Commission focused on key areas of early childhood care and education, including research on childcare costs, governance models, program funding, and strategies for increasing access to high-quality care. Discussions covered the legislative charge, implementation of community networks, and improvements in teaching and learning metrics. Additionally, the commission evaluated workgroup recommendations, legislative report outlines, and the need for a long-term plan prioritized for infant and toddler capacity.

The committee held meetings to conduct a comprehensive review of the state standards for English Language Arts and Mathematics. Key activities included receiving public feedback, discussing the SREB work in Louisiana, and evaluating proposed K-12 standards. Discussions focused on ensuring high expectations, providing teachers with flexibility in instruction, and building connections between grade levels to facilitate student transitions. The committee also debated and endorsed draft standards, requested data-driven decision-making tools from the state department, and provided recommendations regarding implementation support, professional development, and communication strategies for stakeholders.

The meeting featured a report from the Superintendent covering weighted funding for special education students in the minimum foundation program, updates on Believe and Include grant recipients, and a proposal to eliminate the LAA2 assessment from the accountability formula. Additionally, the panel reviewed the purpose and operating structure of the Special Education Advisory Panel, discussed the LDE special education complaint procedure including informal and formal processes and due process, and received information regarding 8(g) special education funding used for supplemental materials. The panel also formally requested a meeting to discuss revisions to the SEAP bylaws.

The meetings covered several key topics regarding special education policy and administration. Discussions included the development and sharing of training resources on meeting protocol and membership duties, policy proposals for grade-level promotion of students eligible for alternate assessments, and revisions to panel bylaws. The panel received reports on weighted funding for special education within the Minimum Foundation Program, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act budget, and the Louisiana Diploma Pathway Transition. Additionally, updates were provided on State Performance Plan development and alternate assessment policy revisions.

The Special Education Advisory Panel reviewed Department of Education findings on services for students with dyslexia and directed the development of related guidance. The Panel endorsed the Minimum Foundation Program Task Force's recommendations regarding High Risk Pool funding and a long-term study to restructure the program. Discussions included the Department's Jump Start initiative, where the Panel endorsed the proposal provided specific conditions regarding graduation requirements and alternate proposals were considered. Additionally, the Panel received updates on the State Performance Plan, the Annual Performance Report, and board procedures, and selected members for an application selection committee.