Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE)
The Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) serves as the primary administrative policy-making body for the state's K-12 education system. Established by the Constitution of Louisiana, BESE is tasked with the critical responsibility of shaping the educational landscape for elementary and secondary schools across the state.
The board operates as a governing entity that bridges the gap between legislative mandates and classroom implementation. Its most prominent leadership role is the selection of the State Superintendent of Education, who is constitutionally mandated to implement the board's policies and the laws governing Louisiana schools.
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Key Facts
- Composition: 11 total members (8 elected, 3 appointed).
- Primary Role: Administrative policy-making for elementary and secondary education.
- Key Appointment: Responsible for selecting the State Superintendent of Education.
- Term Limits: Members are limited to no more than two and a half consecutive terms.
- Funding Oversight: Adopts the Minimum Foundation Program (MFP) formula for school funding.
Evolution and History
The governance of Louisiana's education system has evolved significantly since the early 20th century. The 1921 Constitution originally created the State Board of Education with eight members from congressional districts and three appointed from Railroad Commission districts.
Over the decades, several constitutional shifts occurred:
- 1922: Voters ratified an amendment to maintain the Superintendent of Public Education as an elected office.
- 1946: An amendment eliminated the Governor's power to appoint certain board members, making those positions elected.
- 1974: The education article was entirely rewritten, reorganizing the entity into the current Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE).
- 1985: The legislature abolished the elected office of the Superintendent by a two-thirds vote.
- Post-1990: Following the U.S. census and the loss of a congressional district, the legislature created separate BESE districts that were no longer tied to congressional boundaries.
Core Responsibilities
BESE maintains a broad mandate to ensure quality education across diverse settings, including the Special School District, which provides services to students in mental health and correctional facilities.
Policy and Funding
One of the board's most vital functions is adopting the Minimum Foundation Program (MFP), the formula used to determine school funding. BESE also enacts policies for both public and private schools and oversees the planning functions of the Louisiana Department of Education.
Certification and Standards
To maintain professional standards, BESE sets the certification requirements for administrators and teachers and approves teacher education programs. They also establish the guidelines for alternative education programs and manage student performance assessments and school accountability measures.
Administrative Oversight
The board's administrative duties include:
- Authorizing specific types of charter schools.
- Monitoring school districts that are considered financially at-risk.
- Administering state and federal funds, including the 8(g) Education Quality Trust Fund.
- Approving nonpublic schools.
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Membership and Structure
The board consists of eleven members who bring a mix of elected representation and gubernatorial appointment to the table.
Elected Members
Eight members are elected from BESE districts drawn by the state legislature. These members are elected during gubernatorial elections to four-year terms. If a vacancy occurs between elections, a special election is held.
Appointed Members
Three at-large members are appointed by the Governor at the start of their term, subject to the advice and consent of the Louisiana State Senate.
Term Limits
Since 2008, Louisiana voters have imposed term limits on BESE members. Both elected and appointed members are restricted to a maximum of two and a half consecutive terms in office.
Current BESE Membership Summary
| Member Type | Name | Role/District | Party | Term Start |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Appointed | Simone Champagne | President | Republican | January 8, 2024 |
| Appointed | Conrad Appel | At-Large | Republican | January 8, 2024 |
| Appointed | Judy Armstrong | At-Large | Republican | January 8, 2024 |
| Elected | Kevin Berken | Vice President (Dist 7) | Republican | January 8, 2024 |
| Elected | Sharon Latten Clark | Secretary-Treasurer (Dist 2) | Democratic | January 8, 2024 |
| Elected | Joseph Cao | District 1 | Republican | January 14, 2026 |
| Elected | Sandy Holloway | District 3 | Republican | January 11, 2016 |
| Elected | Stacey Melerine | District 4 | Republican | January 8, 2024 |
| Elected | Lance Harris | District 5 | Republican | January 8, 2024 |
| Elected | Ronnie Morris | District 6 | Republican | January 13, 2020 |
| Elected | Preston Castille | District 8 | Democratic | January 13, 2020 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary purpose of BESE?
BESE is the administrative policy-making body responsible for overseeing public elementary and secondary education in Louisiana, including the creation of policies, funding formulas, and teacher certification requirements.
How are BESE members selected?
The board consists of 11 members: eight are elected from specific districts during gubernatorial elections, and three are appointed by the Governor with the consent of the State Senate.
What is the Minimum Foundation Program (MFP)?
The MFP is the formula adopted by BESE to determine the funding allocated to schools across the state.
Who appoints the State Superintendent of Education?
The State Superintendent of Education is selected by the Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE).
Are there term limits for BESE members?
Yes, since 2008, both elected and appointed members are limited to no more than two and a half consecutive terms in office.