Released: 3/19/2012
Author(s): Paul DiPerna
The “Louisiana K-12 & School Choice Survey” project, commissioned by the Friedman Foundation for Educational Choice and conducted by Braun Research Incorporated (BRI), measures Louisiana registered voters’ familiarity and views on a range of K-12 education topics and school choice reforms. Below we report response levels of public opinion.
In a forthcoming polling report, we will expand this discussion to include differences (using the term “net score” or “net”) of voter opinion and the intensity of responses.
Where do Louisiana’s voters stand on important issues and policy proposals in K-12 education? We attempt to provide some observations and insights in this paper.
A randomly selected and statistically representative sample of Louisiana voters recently responded to 18 substantive questions and 11 demographic questions. The survey, commissioned by The Friedman Foundation for Educational Choice and conducted by Braun Research Incorporated (BRI), interviewed a statistically representative sample of registered voters in the state of Louisiana. Methodology included probability sampling and random-digit dial. A total of 802 telephone interviews were completed in English from February 14 to 27, 2012, by means of both landline and cell phone. Statistical results were weighted to correct known demographic discrepancies. The margin of sampling error for the statewide sample is ± 3.5 percentage points.
Programs
Enacted 2008 • Launched 2008
Louisiana provides an individual tax deduction for educational expenses, including private
school tuition and fees, uniforms, textbooks, curricular materials, and any supplies required by
the school. The deduction also includes tuition and fees at university-run “lab schools,” as well
as educational expenses for public schools and students whose parents choose homeschooling
options.
Enacted 2010 • Launched 2011
Louisiana allows students with disabilities in eligible parishes to receive vouchers to attend
schools of their parents’ choosing that provide educational services specifically addressing
their needs. Eligible students are defined generally as those with special needs who have
Individualized Education Plans but who are not in an accelerated or gifted and talented
program.
Enacted 2008 • Launched 2008
Louisiana’s statewide voucher program is available to low-income students in low-performing
public schools. Prior to 2012, eligibility was limited to students in specific districts and parishes.
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