09/08/12New Louisiana 'Course Choice' Program Upends Public School Model to Offer Personalized Classes
Columbus Republic (IN) (09/08/12) Deslatte, MelindaThe new "Course Choice" program, part of Louisiana's education reform law passed earlier this year, will provide expanded course options to students beginning in the 2013-14 school year. The State Department of Education has received more than 30 applications from contracting groups, online course providers, and colleges that plan to offer the academic courses, skills training, and work-based apprenticeships outside public school classrooms. The department and the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education will be responsible for the decision-making and accountability standards associated with the program. According to State Superintendent John White, "Students today are too often limited by what is offered within the walls of their particular schools. By opening education to a variety of entities proven to prepare students, Course Choice expands options for students and families."
