Louisiana’s special education programs in K-12 public schools could see significant changes in monitoring procedures, including the installation of video cameras in classrooms. The Senate Committee on Education unanimously approved House Bill 153, authored by Rep. Tony Bacala, which mandates the installation of cameras in classrooms with special education students within 90 days of a parent’s request.
Despite state funding for the equipment in 2022, many parents have reported that the cameras have not been installed, prompting concerns about compliance. Sen. Beth Mizell expressed frustration at the lack of progress, stating, “I’ve seen the calls from parents who cannot get the cameras, even though we funded it, even though we have said it is an urgent need in those classrooms.”
In addition to the camera installation requirement, Bacala’s bill also mandates that school districts and charter school operators submit reports to their local special education advisory committees detailing compliance violations, funding sources, and academic performance of special education students. Furthermore, the legislation includes provisions for training school board members on special education policy and outlines dispute resolution processes for parents.
The bill aims to improve transparency and accountability in special education programs, ensuring that students receive the support and resources they need to succeed. With full Senate approval pending, the proposed changes could have a significant impact on how special education is monitored in Louisiana’s public schools.