Members of a state task force are pushing for more dual enrollment options for Louisiana high school students.
The Advocate reports that these classes are expected to be one of Governor Edwards' priorities for the 2020 legislative session.
Members of the task force say Louisiana high school students who are eligible for dual enrollment "should have access to at least four classes for college credit without charge."
The group compiled a report explaining and framing the different options. One piece of research they included states that students who participate in dual enrollment are more likely to enroll in college than their peers.
There are several obstacles to the proposal, including a generally low ratio of students taking dual enrollment courses to those who were not (in the 2017-18 school year).
Other issues are cost, access to classes, and a disparity between the number of white v. black students in dual enrollment.
Funding sources seem to be the main concern, with some schools "already struggling to offer students two courses for college credit."
Mike Faulk, co-chair of the commission, said, "The determining factor will be the people who control the money."
The group is expected to meet again in February before presenting a final report to the Legislature on October 1.
