Author: Emily Gautreaux

New LEAP Data Shows Louisiana Moves Closer to Excellence

The Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE) has released the 2025 results for the Louisiana Educational Assessment Program (LEAP), and the data shows promising signs of academic improvement. According to the latest report, the overall percentage of students in grades 3 through 8 who scored at the Mastery or Advanced levels (referred to as Mastery+) has risen by one percentage point. In the 2024–2025 academic year, 35 percent ofLouisiana students achieved Mastery+, up from 34 percent the previous year, as per this news release from LDOE.

Mathematics saw a particularly encouraging increase. The statewide Mastery+ rate for math among students in grades 3 through 8 climbed two percentage points to reach 33 percent. This improvement aligns with the LDOE’s larger strategy aimed at bolstering mathematics performance throughout the state. Since 2021, Louisiana has experienced a five-point increase in Mastery+ rates for these grade levels, highlighting steady and sustained academic gains.

A closer look at the results reveals that 80 percent of Louisiana’s school systems either maintained or improved their Mastery+ scores for grades 3–8. Similarly, 74 percent of systems saw stable or improved results across grades 3–12. These outcomes suggest that widespread efforts to improve instruction and student achievement are yielding positive results.

Louisiana State Superintendent of Education Dr. Cade Brumley credited teachers for the progress, noting that their dedication and hard work have been central to the state’s continued academic growth. However, he also emphasized that the journey is far from over. Brumley explained that while the upward trend is encouraging, Louisiana must intensify efforts to support its educators, elevate expectations for students, and maintain a clear focus on academic success.

This year’s results will contribute to school performance scores, which the LDOE is expected to release later in 2025. Notably, these will be the final performance scores calculated under Louisiana’s current accountability system. Beginning with the 2025–2026 academic year, LEAP results will feed into a revised accountability framework designed to elevate academic standards and better reflect student readiness.

The new accountability system aims to set higher expectations for schools while also placing a stronger emphasis oncareer readiness and making school performance data more accessible to the public. The first official scores using this revised system will be published in 2026.

One additional development of note is the early release of the LEAP results. For the first time since 2016, statewide LEAP data was made available in early July. On June 30, the LDOE distributed student-level reports to school systems, and system-level results were made public soon after. This earlier release schedule enables schools to prepare more effectively for the upcoming year by aligning instruction and support to meet current student needs.

The LDOE is urging school systems to share LEAP results with families as soon as possible. Parent guides and other resources are available on the department’s official website, offering explanations of test scores and suggestions for how families can support student learning.

LEAP assessments are administered to students in grades 3 through 12 and cover English language arts, math, science, and social studies. Students are evaluated using five performance levels: Unsatisfactory, Approaching Basic, Basic, Mastery, and Advanced. Those scoring at Mastery or Advanced levels are considered proficient, indicating that they are prepared for the next grade level without needing remediation.

As part of its ongoing efforts to enhance assessment quality, the LDOE is also preparing to release new social studies results later this year. These results will be based on updated standards known as the Freedom Framework, and the corresponding test was administered operationally for the first time during the 2024–2025 school year.

Together, these developments signal a critical moment of progress and transition for Louisiana’s public education system—one that blends measurable academic gains with strategic innovation and higher expectations.

For more education-related information, click here.

Vibrant and Fresh: Herbed Chicken with Zesty Arugula Salad

When the days grow long and the air turns warm, nothing satisfies quite like a fresh, vibrant meal that blends smoky grilled flavor with zesty seasonal produce. This Herbed Grilled Chicken with Harissa-Honey Arugula Salad from Louisiana Cookin offers exactly that: a balanced, nutritious plate bursting with flavor and texture. Herb-marinated chicken breasts are grilled to juicy perfection and paired with a colorful arugula salad tossed in a sweet and spicy harissa-honey vinaigrette. Packed with crisp vegetables, creamy feta, and crunchy smoked almonds, this dish is an easy yet elegant choice for summer lunches, outdoor dinners, or casual entertaining.

What sets this dish apart is the harmony of flavors and the attention to texture. The chicken is infused with bold herbs—parsley and thyme—and enhanced by the aromatic addition of sliced onion and kosher salt. A touch of olive oil brings the marinade together, helping the herbs penetrate the chicken. Once grilled, the chicken becomes the perfect companion to the salad’s medley of peppery arugula, delicate zucchini ribbons, and sweet orange bell pepper slices. Crumbled feta lends creamy richness, while chopped smoked almonds add an irresistible crunch.

Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 (6-ounce) package crumbled feta cheese
  • ¼ cup chopped smoked almonds
  • 1 (5-ounce) package baby arugula
  • 1 small zucchini, thinly shaved lengthwise
  • 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced and divided
  • 1 small orange bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • ¼ cup finely chopped fresh parsley
  • 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • ¼ cup cane vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 teaspoons harissa paste
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt, divided

Directions:

  1. In a large bowl, mix together half the sliced onion, chopped parsley, 2 tablespoons olive oil, thyme, and 2 teaspoons kosher salt until fully combined. Add the chicken breasts and toss thoroughly to coat with the herb mixture. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight in the refrigerator).
  2. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Discard the used marinade. Place the chicken on the hot grill and cook for about 15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the outside is golden and an internal temperature of 165°F is reached. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
  3. In a large serving bowl, combine the arugula, zucchini ribbons, sliced bell pepper, remaining onion, crumbled feta, and chopped smoked almonds.
  4. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the cane vinegar, honey, harissa paste, and the remaining 1 teaspoon of salt. Slowly stream in the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil while whisking continuously until the dressing is smooth and emulsified. Pour the harissa-honey vinaigrette over the salad and toss until all ingredients are evenly coated.
  5. Serve the grilled chicken slices atop the dressed salad or alongside it on the plate.

Although this salad is hearty enough to stand on its own, it also pairs beautifully with a few complementary sides. Consider serving it with grilled flatbread or warm pita wedges to soak up the vinaigrette. A chilled melon and mint salad or a small bowl of couscous with lemon zest and herbs can add extra brightness. For a more filling meal, roasted sweet potatoes or a cold quinoa tabbouleh are excellent options.

This Herbed Grilled Chicken with Harissa-Honey Arugula Salad is a go-to recipe for those craving something healthy, flavorful, and easy to prepare. The herb-marinated chicken brings savory depth, while the salad keeps things light and exciting with every bite. The tangy-sweet-spicy vinaigrette ties it all together in a way that makes the meal feel special without requiring hours in the kitchen. Whether served for a solo lunch, a family dinner, or a gathering with friends, this dish captures the essence of summer on a plate.

For more delicious recipes, click here.

Breeze Expands in New Orleans with Routes to Top South Carolina Cities

Travelers departing from New Orleans now have convenient access to two standout destinations on the South Carolina coast: Charleston and Myrtle Beach. As per this article from The Advocate, these cities, which are celebrated for their distinct cultural offerings, historical landmarks, and scenic landscapes, are now within easier reach thanks to nonstop flights offered by Breeze Airways.

Breeze Airways, a low-cost carrier that began operations in 2021, has expanded its New Orleans offerings. Starting September 4, the airline introduced new direct service to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, with flights available on Thursdays and Sundays. One-way tickets start at $59. Additionally, Breeze resumed nonstop flights to Savannah, Georgia, beginning September 5, available on Mondays and Fridays, with fares starting at $49.

Kevin Dolliole, Director of Aviation at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, noted that these new routes enhance travel accessibility for the region’s residents while demonstrating the airline’s dedication to serving the local market. He emphasized that Breeze’s growth at the airport signals confidence in New Orleans as a travel hub.

Echoing that sentiment, Breeze Airways founder and CEO David Neeleman acknowledged the importance of New Orleans in the company’s expanding network. He expressed optimism about the airline’s continued growth in the city, pointing to the addition of Myrtle Beach and the return of Savannah as key steps forward.

Breeze Airways now operates more than 275 year-round and seasonal routes across 72 cities in 32 states, using a fleet of Airbus A220-300 aircraft. These aircraft are designed for comfort and efficiency, helping make shorter trips like those from New Orleans to Charleston or Myrtle Beach even more seamless.

One of the highlights of the current Breeze lineup is Charleston, South Carolina—a destination that shares architectural and cultural similarities with New Orleans. With its cobblestone streets, antebellum mansions, and marshland scenery, Charleston has long served as a picturesque backdrop for films such as The Notebook. Visitors often compare its charm to the historic French Quarter in New Orleans.

The city’s vibrant culture is reflected in its culinary offerings. Signature dishes such as she-crab soup, fresh oysters, and Hoppin’ John—a combination of rice, black-eyed peas, pork, and cornbread—highlight the region’s Gullah Geechee heritage. Local lore suggests that enjoying Hoppin’ John on New Year’s Day brings good fortune for the year ahead.

Charleston’s fine dining scene includes restaurants like Fig, which has produced two James Beard Awardwinners. Other standout spots include Frannie and the Fox, which specializes in inventive Italian cuisine, andPeninsula Grill, renowned for its coconut cake.

For panoramic South Carolina views, visitors can relax at Joe Riley Waterfront Park, home to the iconic Pineapple Fountain, or walk the Ravenel Bridge to neighboring Mount Pleasant for more coastal vistas. Shopping enthusiasts often gravitate to King Street, where high-end stores and local boutiques line a street often traveled by horse-drawn carriages.

Charleston, South Carolina also serves as a gateway to golfing destinations like Hilton Head and Kiawah Island. Breeze operates nonstop flights to Charleston from New Orleans on Sundays, Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays.

Myrtle Beach, located just up the coast, offers a different but equally vibrant experience. With a shoreline known as the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach features 60 miles of beaches and countless activities—from water parks and aquariums to amusement parks and golf courses.

One of the city’s most notable attractions is the SkyWheel, a 187-foot Ferris wheel offering sweeping views of the coastline. For a tranquil and artistic excursion, Brookgreen Gardens blends sculpture and nature across 9,000 acres. More secluded stretches of sand can be found at North Myrtle Beach’s Windy Hill Beach, where scenic views meet cozy restaurants and boutique shops nestled along the Intracoastal Waterway.

As Breeze Airways continues to expand its footprint in Louisiana, residents and visitors alike can enjoy increased options for exploring the southeastern coast.

For more Louisiana-related articles, click here.

Uncrowded and Affordable: Global Destinations to Discover

For travelers seeking unforgettable global destinations without spending a fortune, flying internationally from the United States has never been more accessible. Affordable airfare options, savvy booking strategies, and a willingness to explore underrated destinations are opening the door to exciting adventures across continents, as per this article from Travel + Leisure. From Europe and South America to Southeast Asia and the Caribbean, budget-conscious globetrotters can find culturally rich cities, breathtaking nature, and historic landmarks—all without draining their savings.

One standout destination is County Donegal, Ireland, a lesser-known gem in the country’s rugged northwest. While popular regions like the Ring of Kerry attract more visitors, Donegal offers sweeping ocean views, cliffside landscapes, and remote serenity at a fraction of the price. Flights to Dublin on Aer Lingus frequently fall below $500 round-trip from major U.S. cities, and local flights to Donegal can cost under $40. The region’s treasures include Glenveagh National Park and Malin Head, Ireland’s northernmost point. Accommodations and meals are reasonably priced, and even luxurious options like Lough Eske Castle Hotel stay budget-friendly compared to similar venues in more tourist-heavy areas.

Across the Atlantic, Albania presents Mediterranean coastal beauty and towering alpine landscapes for a fraction of the cost found in neighboring Italy or Greece. This Balkan nation boasts the Accursed Mountainsand Adriatic beaches with minimal crowds. Airbnbs can be found for as little as $50 a night, and dining out typically costs less than $10 per meal. Though direct flights from the U.S. are not yet available, one-stop itineraries to the capital city of Tirana are often priced well under $1,000.

Meanwhile, Southeast Asia’s Hanoi, Vietnam offers cultural richness, culinary delights, and affordability in equal measure. With historical temples, vibrant street markets, and jungle-adjacent cityscapes, Hanoi remains a top choice for travelers on a budget. Currency exchange works in visitors’ favor, with one U.S. dollar equating to over 20,000 Vietnamese dong. Flights from New York often dip below $900 in the fall shoulder season. Lodging at three-star hotels costs between $125 and $150 per night during this period, offering good value amid excellent weather.

For travelers curious about South America, Valparaiso, Chile provides a stunning combination of coastal vistas and artistic spirit. Just two hours from Santiago, the region includes Viña del Mar and a vibrant arts district. Direct flights from cities like Miami and Dallas to Santiago often drop below $600. Hotel stays in the Valparaisoarea typically fall under $200, with wine tastings in nearby Aconcagua Valley starting at under $50. Travel during Chile’s winter (June to August) ensures the best deals, though shoulder seasons offer a nice weather-price balance.

In Central America, Panama City, Panama combines cosmopolitan flair with easy access to rainforests. The historic Casco Viejo neighborhood features colonial architecture and local cuisine highlights such as sancocho de gallina and fresh seafood. From there, the rainforest is within reach for those seeking ecological adventure. Round-trip flights from Miami can start at $300 during the wet season (May to December), with hotel rates under $130 per night during the summer months.

Island travel doesn’t have to break the bank either. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines remain relatively untouched compared to more commercialized Caribbean islands. Flights into Argyle International Airport are often available for under $300, and ferry transfers to the Grenadines run frequently from Kingstown. Accommodations frequently fall below $200 a night, with budget hotels sometimes as low as $50.

International travel doesn’t have to be a luxury. By choosing lesser-known global destinations and flying during off-peak seasons, it’s possible to explore the globe without breaking the bank.

For more travel-related and global destinations news and information, click here.

West Baton Rouge Parish Leads the Way in Tackling Chronic Absenteeism

While school systems across Louisiana—and indeed the nation—continue to grapple with the growing challenge of chronic absenteeism, West Baton Rouge Parish has emerged as a model of progress, as per this article from The Advocate. In contrast to statewide trends, this district has seen measurable improvements in student attendance during the 2024–2025 school year, signaling a promising shift driven by focused leadership, community engagement, and supportive programs.

Over the course of the school year, West Baton Rouge Parish reported a monthly decline of at least 3% in chronic absenteeism. The most dramatic improvement came in December, when the percentage of chronically absent students dropped from 18.7% to just 9.8%. These numbers are particularly noteworthy given the broader state context. In 2024, nearly 25% of Louisiana students were classified as chronically absent—defined as missing 10% or more of the academic year, regardless of whether the absences were excused or unexcused.

Superintendent Chandler Smith attributed this decline in absenteeism to several key strategies that have been implemented across the district. According to Smith, one of the major factors behind the positive trend has been improved communication between schools and families. By strengthening relationships with parents and guardians, schools were better equipped to intervene early and provide necessary support when attendance began to decline.

Another significant contributor has been the district’s collaboration with the Families In Need of Services (FINS) program, operated through the 18th Judicial District Court. FINS connects directly with families to address underlying causes of truancy, such as transportation issues, health concerns, or unstable housing. These proactive interventions have helped address the root of absenteeism, rather than merely its symptoms.

West Baton Rouge Parish also introduced an attendance recovery initiative designed to help students regain lost instructional time. Through this program, students have the opportunity to make up missed class hours after school or on weekends. By offering these recovery options, the district ensures students are not academically penalized for past absences while reinforcing the importance of being present.

Smith emphasized that all of these efforts tie back to a central goal: boosting student achievement. He noted that teachers and school leaders have responded enthusiastically to the improvements, believing that better attendance is directly linked to stronger academic outcomes. “Our teachers are excited, our principals are excited,” Smith said, adding that much of the district’s academic progress is due to the steady reduction in chronic absences.

While West Baton Rouge Parish has taken charge at the local level, the state of Louisiana has also taken steps to address attendance challenges. House Bill 185, proposed by Rep. Barbara Reich Freiberg of Baton Rouge, aimed to connect school funding with daily student attendance. Although the bill ultimately failed to advance out of committee, it highlighted a growing recognition among lawmakers that attendance is a vital part of educational success.

In June, the Louisiana Department of Education unveiled a statewide attendance strategy called The Power of Presence. This initiative provides a clear, tiered framework for preventing and responding to chronic absenteeism. Instead of focusing on punishment, the strategy emphasizes early intervention, family engagement, and community partnership as tools for improvement.

Despite the broader statewide movement, West Baton Rouge leaders are intent on staying the course with the tools that have brought them success. Superintendent Smith expressed support for the state’s efforts while reiterating his commitment to continuing the district’s existing strategies. “We’re going to continue doing what we’re doing,” he stated. “I know that the state has really made a push, which is helpful for us.”

The progress in West Baton Rouge serves as a powerful reminder that solutions to chronic absenteeism are possible when schools prioritize relationships, wraparound services, and student-centered flexibility. As Louisiana’s state leaders seek to replicate these results across more parishes, the work being done in West Baton Rouge stands as both a roadmap and an inspiration.

For more education-related information, click here.

Scuba, Cast, Camp: Explore Every Corner of Dale Hollow Lake

Nestled between the Kentucky-Tennessee border and stretching across Clinton, Cumberland, Overton, and Pickett counties, Dale Hollow Lake offers an escape into nature that few other Southern destinations can match, as per this travel blog guide from Southern Living. This 27,700-acre reservoir delivers serenity in abundance, thanks to its undeveloped shoreline, remarkably clear water, and an atmosphere that feels worlds away from busier lakefront hubs. Formed in 1943 by damming the Obey River, Dale Hollow Lake is not only one of Kentucky’s oldest artificial lakes but also a pioneering project of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

A short two-hour drive northeast of Nashville, transports visitors to a peaceful landscape where glassy waters reflect dense forests and bald eagles soar above the treetops. The lake’s calm surface invites moments of stillness, but it also sets the stage for a wide variety of outdoor pursuits, from paddling and camping to scuba diving and angling.

Fishing is a major draw at Dale Hollow, particularly for smallmouth bass, which thrive in its clean, cool depths. Anglers will also find plentiful largemouth and spotted bass, crappie, muskie, bluegill, and stocked brown trout. Fly fishing enthusiasts especially appreciate the quiet coves and underwater clarity, which allow for a more immersive—and successful—experience. Visit the Dale Hollow Lake Fishing page for more details.

For those eager to dive deeper, quite literally, scuba diving in Dale Hollow is a hidden gem. Thanks to its purity, the lake ranks among the cleanest in the region, making visibility underwater ideal. Beneath the surface lies the submerged remnants of Willow Grove, a town that was flooded when the reservoir was formed. Divers can explore submerged barn foundations, old roads, and even the outline of a schoolhouse—adding a sense of mystery and history to their descent.

Water lovers will also find plenty of ways to explore above the surface. Houseboats are a staple on the lake, and marinas around the shoreline offer rentals for all kinds of watercraft, including pontoon boats, fishing boats, jet skis, and kayaks. Check out the Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park and Sunset Marina for rental and boating options.

Camping is another standout option at Dale Hollow Lake. Whether pitching a tent or rolling in with an RV, visitors can find welcoming campsites with lakeside views. Popular options include Dale Hollow Dam Campground, Dale Hollow State Park Campground, and the facilities at the State Resort Park.

When it’s time to take a break from the water, hiking and wildlife viewing await nearby. The surrounding trails are ideal for both walkers and horseback riders. Wildlife lovers

will want to keep their eyes on the skies—Dale Hollow boasts the second-highest concentration of bald eagles in Tennessee, according to Tennessee Watchable Wildlife. Spotting one perched above the lake or gliding across the treetops is an unforgettable experience.

Dining around Dale Hollow is as charming and laid-back as the lake itself. Sunset Marina & Resort serves up food from a floating restaurant where you can feed turtles just steps from your table. Over at Mike’s Landing Restaurant, enjoy lakefront views and live music from the outdoor deck. For a change of pace, head west to Celina, Tennessee, a quaint town filled with old-school diners and local cafes. On the east side, the communities of Allons and Livingston offer additional restaurant options that make perfect post-adventure stops.

Whether you’re reeling in a trophy bass, drifting across a glassy cove, exploring underwater ruins, or simply taking in a bald eagle sighting at sunrise, Dale Hollow Lake delivers a kind of natural immersion that stays with you long after you leave. With its blend of historic intrigue, recreational opportunity, and untouched beauty, it remains one of the South’s most underrated lake getaways.

For more travel-related news and information, click here.