Big News About School Testing: What Senate Bill 105 Could Mean for Our Students
- Dr. Crystal London
- May 15
- 2 min read
Updated: May 21
Last week, I had the opportunity to visit the Louisiana State Capitol to talk about an important bill—Senate Bill 105. This bill could bring big changes to how we test students in our public schools, and I wanted to make sure our community knows what’s happening.
Right now, our students take the LEAP test every year. This test takes a lot of time—sometimes up to 13 hours from start to finish. Senate Bill 105 suggests we use a different kind of test called a nationally normed test. This is a test that many other students across the country already take.
Here’s why this change could be good for our students:
It saves time. These new tests take much less time—usually about 3 to 5 hours total. That gives teachers and students more time for learning in the classroom.
It gives us better data. With this new kind of test, we could see how students are doing compared to others in Louisiana and across the country. This helps teachers and schools know where they’re doing well and where they need support.
It helps attract business. Many companies look at education before deciding where to open or expand. Good test results and a strong school system can help bring new jobs and businesses to our community.
It’s fairer for everyone. Right now, students in private and voucher schools don’t have to take the LEAP, but they do take nationally normed tests. If all students take the same kind of test, it will be easier to compare progress fairly, no matter the school type.
What’s next? We’ll keep you updated as this bill moves through the State Legislature. I plan to reach out to our state legislators—Senator Regina Barrow and Representative Roy Daryl Adams—to discuss this bill further. I want to make sure I bring your voices and ideas to that conversation.
How You Can Help
✅ In the meantime, we’ve attached a copy of the bill so you can read it for yourself.
✅ Please take a moment to look it over and let us know what you think. Your voice matters!
Dr. Crystal London
District 8, Zachary Community School Board
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