LEAP Achievement Increases in Louisiana School Districts

Just before the start of the 2022-2023 school year, the Louisiana Department of Education released the achievement data derived from 2021-22 LEAP scores, and according to this news release from the LADOE, the released scores showed immensely strong student growth across a wide array of both grade levels and school systems.

Quite a few highlights of success were obtained after interpreting the results of the LEAP assessments that were administered during the 2021-22 school year. Some of these highlights include the Mastery rates of achievement that were earned by students in grades 3-8 had improved by 3 solid points in both math and English Language Arts (ELA). Furthermore, 80% of Louisiana school systems improved their mastery rate when compared to their LEAP data from the previous school year, 2020-21.

This data was derived from the results of the LEAP 2025 annual assessment of ELA, math, science, and social studies that is administered to students in grades 3-12. The LEAP 2025 tests aim to measure the knowledge and skills as they are defined by the state’s content standard for each grade. Students have their scores of achievement reported across five levels: Unsatisfactory, Approaching Basic, Basic, Mastery, or Advanced. Those students who score Mastery or Advanced are considered to be proficient and ready for the next grade level.

Louisiana State Superintendent Dr. Cade Brumley commented on the successes shown in the data by saying, “after the impact of a global pandemic and two of the strongest hurricanes in our state’s history, Louisiana’s students are back on their feet. K-12 education is on the rise in Louisiana because we kept schools open, strategically allocated resources, and developed innovative solutions to recover and accelerate student learning. This progress is a true testament to the dedication of our educators to maintain high standards for students no matter the circumstance. We still have work to do before we’ve fully recovered from the impact of the last two years, but there’s excitement among our teachers and leaders to close that gap and continue moving our students forward.”

Outside of the two milestones of success highlighted above, the release testing date indicated that this past school year, fewer students scored Unsatisfactory, which included an impressive 3-point decrease in students who scored Unsatisfactory in math. Additionally, Mastery rates had improved across all individual subject areas for grades 3-12, and Mastery rates improved among numerous student subgroups. Some of these student subgroups that saw improvement were students with economic disadvantages, students with disabilities, and Asian, African American, and white students.

Just some of the Louisiana school districts that have ranked among the top 10 public school districts in Louisiana for the percentage of students in grades 3-12 who scored Mastery or Advanced on the state’s accountability exams are Calcasieu Parish, Jefferson Parish, Lafourche Parish, Plaquemines Parish, St. Charles Parish, and St. Tammany Parish. The immense amount of improvement was felt across the state; for instance, Livingston Parish Public Schools saw that 41% of their students had scored at the highest two achievement levels on the LEAP 2025 assessments.

Livingston Parish Superintendent Joe Murphy commented on the achievement by saying, “Our district has held strong through the continuing pandemic and recent hurricane disruptions. It is our goal as a district to grow from these strong positions and continue to improve performance at all levels.” Furthermore, Lafourche Parish Superintendent Jarod Martin commented on his district’s success by saying, “I couldn’t be prouder. I thought we would take a step back given the challenges we faced. I can honestly say that we expected that. But these numbers reflect a step forward and they far exceeded our expectations. We are just so tremendously proud of the accomplishments given the challenges we’ve faced.”

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Martha Stewart’s Macaroni and Cheese

Martha Stewart has been a household name in America for decades now, teaching us all how to live a more stylish and graceful life. But of all the things Martha has shared with the world, her recipes are considered her greatest contributions, as showcased by a recent article from Food52. On October 12th, 2021, Martha released her 99th cookbook, Martha Stewart’s Fruit Desserts: 100+ Delicious Ways to Savor the Best of Every Season, making it time for all of us to revisit her delicious recipes. While some may prefer her one pan pasta (described below), we honestly have to put her macaroni and cheese at the top of our list.

There are a few favorites that you can easily turn to time and time again. One of her most popular recipes of all time is One-Pan Pasta, a dish as simple as it sounds that can be prepared in less than 10 minutes, but packs serious flavor. The recipe calls for cooking spaghetti, cherry tomatoes, garlic, basil, and onions all in one large pot, and it is not only delicious, but beautiful both while it’s being prepared and when you’re serving it. Perhaps this recipe is also a favorite because of its ability to provide what feels like an elevated meal on days when pouring away in the kitchen for a long time doesn’t work for your schedule. Martha also relies on kitchen appliance favorites that we all use on busy days like the Instant Pot and slow-cooker for recipes that sound complicated, but are doable and delicious, such as Vietnamese-Style Chicken Soup and Italian-Braised Pork. Whether you’re tackling a complex recipe, or looking for a more stylish version of a classic, Martha never fails to provide. Here is her luxurious take on a classic dish, macaroni and cheese, that comes out perfect every single time.

Ingredients:

  • 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, plus more for dish
  • 6 slices good white bread, crusts removed, torn or diced into 1/4- to 1/2-inch pieces
  • 5 1/2 cups milk
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, or to taste
  • 4 1/2 cups grated sharp white cheddar cheese (about 18 ounces)
  • 2 cups grated Gruyere cheese (about 8 ounces) or 1 1/4 cups grated Pecorino Romano cheese (about 5 ounces)
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni (or other small pasta shape)

 

  1. Heat your oven to 375 degrees. Butter a 3-quart casserole dish; set aside. Place bread in a medium bowl. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons butter (alternately, melt butter in the microwave). Pour butter into bowl with bread, and toss. Set breadcrumbs aside. Pull out 1 1/2 cups of grated cheddar, and 1/2 cup Gruyere or 1/4 cup Pecorino Romano, and reserve.
  2. Fill a large pot with water; bring to a boil. Add macaroni; cook 2 to 3 minutes less than manufacturer’s directions, until the outside of pasta is cooked and the inside is underdone. (Different brands of macaroni cook at different rates; be sure to read the instructions.) Transfer macaroni to a colander, rinse under cold running water, and drain well. Set aside.
  3. In a medium saucepan set over medium heat, heat milk. In the same pot you used for boiling the pasta, melt remaining 6 tablespoons butter over medium heat. When butter bubbles, add flour. Cook, whisking, 1 minute.
  4. While whisking, slowly pour in hot milk. Continue cooking, whisking constantly, until the mixture bubbles and becomes thick.
  5. Remove pan from heat. Stir in salt, nutmeg, black pepper, cayenne pepper, 3 cups cheddar cheese, and 1 1/2 cups Gruyere or 1 cup Pecorino Romano. Stir reserved macaroni into the cheese sauce.
  6. Pour mixture into prepared dish. Sprinkle remaining 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup Gruyere or 1/4 cup Pecorino Romano, and breadcrumbs over top. Bake until browned on top, about 30 minutes. If after 30 minutes, it’s not browned to your liking, broil the topping rather than leaving it in the oven, which may cause the pasta to overcook and sauce to dry out. Transfer dish to a wire rack to cool 5 minutes; serve hot and enjoy!

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Five Reasons to Visit Maine

While every state in the country plays host to at least a single one-of-a-kind attraction, Maine seems to have more than the standard amount of must-sees to attract visitors from all parts. Part of its allure is thanks to its eastern-most location in the continental U.S., with a marked point at West Quoddy Head to prove it. Its quiet, coastal location includes beautiful cliffs, sandy beaches and historic lighthouses, as well as picturesque mountains. Besides the gorgeous nature, Maine locals offer their own one-of-a-kind experiences including artisan studios, seafood straight from their backyard, and cozy, cottage-like historic inns. For your next trip, consider the following unique experiences that Maine has to offer according to a recent article by Travelocity.

Stay Overnight in a Historic Lighthouse

Ever wondered what it’s like to be a lighthouse keeper? You can find out firsthand at the historic Little River Lighthouse in Downeast Maine. Hike through the quiet trails on the 15-acre island through whispering pines and breathe in the crisp ocean air. If you’re up for the challenge, climb to the top of the lighthouse for an amazing view as far as the eye can see. Take in a dazzling sunset then prepare yourself for a night sky like you’ve never seen before. With no city lights, tall buildings or smog to hinder your view, you will have the opportunity to admire the stunning brilliance of the stars against a black velvet sky.

Attend a Clambake on a Private Island

Clambakes, a New England tradition, are outdoor gatherings that involve baking or steaming clams, other seafood and sides between layers of seaweed over a pit. One popular iteration, the Cabbage Island Clambake, takes place on a picturesque private island. Cabbage Island guests are treated to a traditional Downeast Maine clambake including fish chowder, two lobsters, clams, golden corn on the cob, potato, onion, a hard steamed egg and blueberry cake. After you enjoy your meal, guests can explore the beauty of Cabbage Island through its wooded trails to Hawk Point or by simply relaxing under the shade of the great oak tree. You can also play horseshoes, volleyball and badminton. However you choose to enjoy this unique experience, it will make memories for years to come.

Explore a Water Trail

Take a scenic boat ride along the Maine Island Trail. This 375-mile water trail extends the entire length of the Maine coast. Whether you choose to paddle, sail, cruise, or kayak, this trail connects over 250 wild islands and mainland sites that are open for day use or overnight camping. There is no official route along the Trail, so you can explore at your own pace and in your own way. Some adventurous guests paddle, sail, motor, or row the entire length of the coast in one trip!

Hike the Start – or the End – of the Appalachian Trail

 The Appalachian National Scenic Trail, or the A.T., spans 14 states and over 2,000 miles in the Eastern United States. Maine plays host to 282 miles of hiking with the highest peak on Mount Katahdin, located in Baxter State Park, where you can hike, camp or explore more than 200,000 acres of remote wilderness. Maine is the A.T.’s most challenging, rugged and remote state, and it has the wildest feel of any area of the Trail. Along the trail, you’ll find striking summits, beautiful waterfalls, and rocky river crossings.

Follow a 350-Mile Art Museum Trail

The Maine Art Museum Trail, which spans 350 miles, guides you through nine world-class art museums around the state. With more than 80,000 works of art—from ancient artifacts and world-famous masterpieces, to contemporary Maine artists and unique, awe-inspiring installations—the participating art museums of Maine showcase an impressive diversity of artists, subjects, and media.  There is something for every art lover at every stop along the trail. Be sure to check their website for current museum openings before you start your trek.

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Nicholls Student Remembered with New Scholarship

To honor the memory of Kennedi Foret, a former Nicholls State University student who was the victim of a fatal car crash in December 2021, the Nicholls State University Foundation is establishing a new endowed scholarship, according to a press release issued by the university.

The Kennedi Foret Marine Biology Undergraduate Memorial Scholarship will be awarded to female graduates of Lafourche Parish high schools majoring in Biology with a concentration in Marine Biology. Recipients can be sophomores, juniors or seniors with a 3.0 GPA and will receive a $500 scholarship broken down into two $250 per semester awards.

Foret’s mother Amber Pitre said, “This scholarship is just one way that we can let Kennedi’s light continue to shine and her love for Nicholls continue to show. To give young ladies a similar opportunity to learn about marine biology like Kennedi had at Nicholls means the world to us.”

Foret passed away on in December of 2021 following a fatal car accident. Foret’s accident followed shortly after three Nicholls State University students were killed on the way to a birthday dinner in late November of 2021. Police reported that a driver hit a car with three Nicholls State students inside, all of whom had graduated from the same high school in the spring of 2021.

Louisiana set a new record in 2021 with 914 highway crashes and 997 deaths. According to the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission’s recent Louisiana Highway Safety Plan there was a 10% increase in car crashes within the last five years and 40.6% of all fatal car crashes that occurred in 2019 were related to alcohol impairment. Governor John Bel Edwards said that these statistics were “alarming” and lamented, “The fact that there are an average of three deaths per day on Louisiana highways is unacceptable.” Impaired and distracted driving are other notable causes of highway deaths.

Across the United States, car accidents are the number one leading cause of death among 13- to 19-year-old females, and one of the leading causes of deaths for both male and female college students. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration cites several reasons for these startling statistics including distracted driving, speeding, drunk driving, driving with peers, and general inexperience. No matter the reason, when a teen is involved in a serious automobile accident, the outcome can be devastating for the families of everyone involved, particularly if injuries in teen car accidents are fatal.

Foret’s family and friends wish to make a difference for others, raise awareness and preserve Kennedi’s memory by starting the endowed scholarship. Nicholls State University also honored Kennedi’s legacy by inscribing her name into a brick near the eternal flame in the quadrangle of campus.

Nicholls Foundation Executive Director Jeremy Becker said the university has started strong in raising money for the endowment scholarship in honor of the Nicholls student, however, they have not yet met their goal. Becker hopes that the scholarship will encourage women in Louisiana to pursue a career in marine biology to help with preservation and restoration efforts along the state’s coast line.

“To have Kennedi’s name associated with recruiting future students to come to Nicholls and possibly do marine biology research in the Coastal Center that will live on our campus is something special,” Becker said. “I’d love to see solutions to some of our coastal restoration problems come from a recipient of this scholarship in her name.”

Contributions are welcome and encouraged to help meet and surpass the scholarship’s goals, to enrich the lives of women in Louisiana, and to honor the legacy of Nicholls student, Kennedi Foret. To support this scholarship, visit nichollsfoundation.org/memorial-scholarships/ or contact Jeremy Becker at 985-448-4006.

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Steak Sandwich on Garlic Bread

Sandwiches. They are a staple in any American’s diet. Sandwiches can be simple and easy, like peanut butter and jelly on untoasted white bread. They can be complex and require ingredients you don’t even know how to pronounce, much less have on hand in your kitchen. They can be prepared by the greenest of culinary novices or the most celebrated chefs in the world. But what happens when you take a meat that is loved widely by carnivores and nestle it between two pieces of bread? Magic happens. We call this magic a steak sandwich. And what’s better than a steak sandwich? How about a juicy steak sandwich on crispy, grilled garlic bread. The recipe can be found here.

Which cut of beef makes the best steak sandwiches? Tenderness is the key here!  According to many culinary experts, quality sirloin steak is the best cut of beef to use for a steak sandwich. Sirloin is packed with flavor and is often marbled to perfection, making it the obvious winner, but ultimately, any tender cut of meat will suffice. Some other great contenders are tenderloin, flank steak, and a host of different types of roasts; even leftover prime rib would make a tasty sandwich. Whether you’re relying on what’s in the fridge, what’s available at your local store, or what will be kindest to your pocketbook, the options are endless for this recipe.

Minced garlic or garlic powder? Well, you must first recognize the difference between the two before deciding which route you’d like to take. Minced garlic is superior to garlic powder in most situations because it is fresher and it has a stronger flavor. So in the case of this recipe, playing up the garlic in the garlic bread with minced garlic instead of garlic powder would seem to be the obvious choice. However, if all you have on hand is garlic powder, fear not. It will still get the job done.

This recipe calls for bolillos to serve as the sandwich bread that will be transformed into garlic bread. Why bolillos? Many reasons. First, bolillos, a white bread recipe popular in Mexico and Central America, is an ideal sandwich bread because of its simplicity. It’s also incredibly versatile. The crust is crunchy while the inside is fluffy and chewy. And it makes for some delicious garlic bread.

Here’s what you’re going to need:

Here’s what you’re going to do:

  1. In a nonstick skillet set to medium heat, cook the onions until caramelized, about 10 minutes. Remove the onions and cover them to keep them warm.
  2. Add the steak to the skillet in batches to ensure even cooking. Cook each batch for about 2 to 3 minutes or until done, flipping each strip a few times.
  3. Add the chiles to the last batch of steak and cook them, too.
  4. In a bowl, combine the cooked steak and chiles with the caramelized onions. Add the chopped cilantro and give it all a toss. Cover the bowl to keep the mixture warm.
  5. In a separate bowl, mix the mayonnaise and garlic powder and spread it onto the cut sides of the bolillos.
  6. In a skillet, grill each side of the bolillos until golden brown, about 2 minutes for each side.
  7. Transfer the bolillos to a plate and fill with the steak mixture. Add desired amount of cheese slices.

Unless you’re cooking for vampires, or are one yourself, swapping conventional buns for crunchy garlic bread can only level up your sandwich game. Find more ways to level up in the kitchen here.

 

 

 

Top City Hotels in the U.S. According to Travel + Leisure Readers

Every year, Travel + Leisure asks for readers’ opinions on various travel related subjects. Those opinions are then used to create “Best” lists to guide readers when planning a trip. One of those categories is Best City Hotels, and this year’s top winners did not disappoint.

Readers were asked to choose their favorite city hotels based on certain characteristics, some of which are location, amenities, facilities, and overall value. Here are the top winners, according to this Travel + Leisure article.

The Lowell, New York City

Located in the heart of Manhattan on the Upper East Side, The Lowell has easy access to the posh shops of Fifth Avenue, the major fashion houses of Madison Avenue, and the calming retreat to nature that is Central Park. This is one of the main reasons the hotel is so popular with travelers. Of course, the luxury the hotel provides doesn’t hurt either. Established in 1927, The Lowell has a timeless elegance and grace that is perfectly reflected in its gold, cream, and white color scheme. The Lowell is small for a New York hotel, with just 74 rooms and suites across 17 floors, but many visitors preferred the cozy atmosphere this creates. The hotel even boasts wood-burning fireplaces, which are pretty rare in New York, landscaped terraces overlooking the city, and afternoon tea in the Pembroke Room.

The Loutrel, Charleston, South Carolina

The Loutrel, named for the famous landscape architect Loutrel Briggs, is a 50-room contemporary boutique hotel with a prime location just outside of the residential historic district of Charleston. The hotel just opened in November of 2021 but has already made quite an impression on travelers. Paying homage to Briggs, who designed about 100 private gardens in the area starting in the 1920s, the hotel outfits every corner with greenery and flower arrangements. Rooms are clean and minimalist with floor to ceiling windows. The rooftop terrace is the crown jewel of the hotel, and guests can expect to be wowed by the views of the historic French Quarter any time of day or night.

Pendry Chicago, Chicago

Located in the 1929 Art Deco Carbide and Carbon Building, Pendry Chicago is a contemporary boutique hotel that offers luxury comforts and impressive city views. The rooms are elegantly decorated in black and white, an aesthetic that is fitting for the time period it honors. Customer service is the hotel’s specialty and concierges famously keep on top of guests’ needs through texting. The hotel also houses many popular restaurants and bars, such as the French restaurant Venteux (French for “windy”), the cocktail bar Bar Pendry, and the rooftop bar Chateau Carbide.

 Riggs Washington D.C., Washington, D.C.

The Riggs Washington D.C. is a city hotel located in the building that used to house The Riggs National Bank. It is one of the last remaining Romanesque Revival buildings in the area, and the architecture makes quite a statement. Regular roomsfeature statement wallpaper and upholstered headboards designed by the firm Voutsa. There are also four suitesinspired by four First Ladies that each have fun and unique details. The hotel has guests covered for food and drink with Cafe Riggs, a restaurant that’s open all day, and Silver Lyan, a bar housed in what used to be the bank’s vault. The hotel also has a prime location in the Penn Quarter-Chinatown area, making shopping, dining, and museum visiting very accessible.

These fine city hotels offer the best in luxurious accommodations, delicious food and cocktails, and guest services sure to make anyone feel spoiled. They also have prime locations with killer views. According to Travel + Leisure readers, travelers should not miss an opportunity to check these hotels out for themselves.

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