Author: Emily Gautreaux

Louisiana’s Focus on Fundamentals Pays Off in National Education Rankings

Louisiana students have demonstrated remarkable academic progress, earning their highest national education rankings to date on The Nation’s Report Card, as per this news release from LDOE. This widely respected assessment, officially known as the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), evaluates reading and math proficiency among 4th and 8th graders across the United States. The latest results indicate that Louisiana students have not only made significant strides but have also positioned themselves among the nation’s top performers in multiple categories.

Governor Jeff Landry and Louisiana State Superintendent of Education Dr. Cade Brumley addressed this milestone during a press conference held at Magnolia Woods Elementary in Baton Rouge. Brumley emphasized that these achievements in national education rankings highlight the dedication of educators and the state’s unwavering commitment to foundational academic skills. While acknowledging the progress made, he noted that continuous improvement remains a priority.

The Nation’s Report Card assesses student performance in four key areas: 4th grade math, 4th grade reading, 8th grade math, and 8th grade reading. Vice President of the Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education, Stacey Melerine, underscored the significance of these achievements, attributing them to a strong academic foundation and an unyielding commitment to excellence. She expressed particular encouragement at the fact that students facing greater socioeconomic and learning challenges surpassed national trends.

Louisiana’s academic progress reflects the state’s targeted investment in literacy, mathematics, and teacher development. Louisiana adopted an evidence-based literacy model rooted in phonics, restructuring reading instruction statewide. Educators have received extensive training to support student success in early literacy.

The state’s math plan focused on fundamental skills, ensuring students have the necessary foundation for advanced coursework. Louisiana’s nationally recognized Special Education Playbook for System Leaders provided educators with tools to enhance learning environments for students with disabilities. The state prioritized professional development, equipping teachers and administrators with high-quality instructional materials while reducing bureaucratic hurdles and unnecessary training requirements.

Deputy Superintendent Dr. Jenna Chiasson highlighted the importance of Louisiana’s teacher-focused strategies. She pointed to targeted professional learning, coaching, and collaboration as key factors in improving student outcomes which helped the state’s national education rankings.

Building on recent successes, Louisiana has launched several new initiatives aimed at sustaining and accelerating academic growth:

  • Expanded High-Dosage Tutoring: With increased legislative funding, more schools and students now have access to intensive tutoring programs designed to support struggling learners.
  • K-3 Literacy Screener: This early assessment tool helps educators identify reading challenges in young students, enabling earlier intervention.
  • K-3 Math Screener: Modeled after the literacy initiative, this new assessment will identify foundational math difficulties and ensure targeted instruction.
  • Statewide Teacher Training: Louisiana continues to invest in teacher preparation, particularly in foundational reading and math instruction.
  • Revised Accountability System: The state has adopted a nationally acclaimed school accountability system that sets higher academic expectations, enhances career education pathways, and provides the public with clear, accessible data on school performance.

This updated accountability system is expected to take effect in the upcoming school year and has been recognized by national education experts as one of the strongest in the country.

The Nation’s Report Card (NAEP) serves as the only nationally representative measure of student achievement over time, providing critical insights into educational progress across states, U.S. territories, and Department of Defense schools. Since 2003, NAEP has assessed 4th and 8th graders in math and reading every two years, though the assessment was paused due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2022 administration marked the first full assessment since this disruption.

Louisiana’s recent successes on The Nation’s Report Card reflect the state’s commitment to strengthening education through research-based instructional strategies, targeted student support, and enhanced teacher development. As Louisiana continues to refine and expand its academic initiatives, these results offer a promising glimpse into the state’s educational future.

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From Mountains to Markets: The Best Things to Do in Vancouver

Vancouver, a city that seamlessly blends urban sophistication with breathtaking natural beauty, is a traveler’s dream. Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and towering mountains, this Canadian gem is brimming with adventure, culture, and world-class cuisine. Whether exploring historic neighborhoods, hiking through lush forests, or indulging in diverse culinary delights, there is no shortage of activities to fill your itinerary, thanks to this travel guide from Travel + Leisure.

One of the most thrilling experiences in the city is crossing the Capilano Suspension Bridge. Suspended 230 feet above the forest floor, this 450-foot-long bridge offers stunning views of the surrounding canyon. Visitors can also test their nerves on the Cliffwalk, a series of walkways that cling to the granite cliffside, or take a more immersive trek through the Treetop Adventures, a network of smaller suspension bridges connected to towering trees.

For an awe-inspiring panoramic view of the city, take the Skyride Gondola to the peak of Grouse Mountain. Once at the top, visitors can hike scenic trails, watch live lumberjack shows, and visit Coola and Grinder, two orphaned grizzly bears residing in a protected habitat. In the winter, Grouse Mountain transforms into a snowy paradise perfect for skiing and snowshoeing.

Art and history enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art, which showcases the work of renowned Haida artist Bill Reid, along with contemporary Indigenous artists. Another cultural highlight is theDr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden, a tranquil retreat in the heart of Chinatown that offers a glimpse into traditional Chinese garden design.

For those who enjoy being on the water, stand-up paddleboarding on the Salish Sea is an unforgettable experience. Paddling along Vancouver’s North Shore in the early morning provides a peaceful escape, with the chance to see harbor seals, loons, and even salmon swimming beneath the surface.

Another must-visit destination is Bowen Island, a short ferry ride from Vancouver. Here, visitors can browse the local farmers market, hike up to Dorman Point Lookout, or kayak along the picturesque shoreline. This charming island is the perfect spot to experience the natural beauty of British Columbia.

Vancouver’s Chinatown Storytelling Centre offers a deep dive into the city’s Chinese-Canadian heritage, bringing history to life through interactive exhibits. The city also hosts the Vancouver Mural Festival, a self-guided walking tour that showcases more than 300 colorful murals painted by local and international artists.

History buffs will appreciate the Capilano River Hatchery, where they can learn about the conservation efforts to protect the region’s declining salmon populations. This site also features scenic trails and picnic spots, making it a great place for a relaxing afternoon.

Animal lovers will enjoy a visit to the Vancouver Aquarium, Canada’s largest marine research and education center. Home to over 65,000 aquatic animals, including sea otters, sea lions, and jellyfish, this aquarium plays a crucial role in marine conservation and climate activism.

For those looking to explore the city from a different perspective, taking the Aquabus to Olympic Village is a fun and scenic way to travel. This area, originally built for the 2010 Winter Olympics, is now a vibrant neighborhood with parks, waterfront trails, and local markets.

From its thrilling outdoor adventures to its rich cultural heritage and diverse food scene, Vancouver offers something for every traveler. Whether scaling mountain peaks, exploring art galleries, or savoring global flavors at the night market, every corner of this vibrant city invites discovery. With so much to see and do, Vancouver is a destinationworth revisiting time and again.

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How Louisiana’s Coastal Wetlands and Wildlife Endured the Unusual Cold Snap

Louisiana’s coastal wetlands, known for their subtropical climate, rarely experience snow or extreme cold. However, a recent winter storm in early 2025 brought an unusual blanket of snow to the region, prompting concerns about its impact on the state’s delicate coastal ecosystems. While some wildlife and plant species may have been affected, experts assured that the wetlands themselves were unlikely to suffer significant damage, as per this article from The Advocate.

One of the most immediate consequences of the cold snap was the reported fish kills along Louisiana’s coastal wetlands. Certain fish species, particularly those not native to the state, struggled to survive the sudden temperature drop. The rapid decline in water temperature appeared to have been the primary cause, as fish are highly sensitive to abrupt environmental changes. While some species faced challenges, others demonstrated resilience. Alligators, for instance, were largely unaffected by the cold. According to Chris Schieble, deputy assistant secretary of fisheries at the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, alligators had already entered a hibernation-like state known as brumation. They remained buried in their mounds, conserving energy and avoiding exposure to the frigid temperatures.

Similarly, native birds to our coastal wetlands may have experienced initial confusion due to the unusual conditions, but experts believed they would adapt without long-term harm. Other cold-hardy swamp creatures, such as river otters, were also expected to remain largely unaffected.

The snow-covered landscape presented an unusual sight for Louisianans, with palmettos, bald cypress trees, and live oaks weighed down by frost and icicles. Though some plants might suffer damage, Robert Twilley, a coastal sciences professor at LSU, expressed confidence that most native plant populations would recover quickly.

One species of concern, however, was the black mangrove. These subtropical plants, which have expanded across Louisiana’s coastline since the 1980s due to warming temperatures, are highly sensitive to frost. Twilley noted that while some black mangroves would likely die, he had been surprised in the past at their ability to recover.

Andrew Ferris, coordinator of the native plants program at the Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana, expected some mangrove losses but reassured that other native species would fare well. He visited a site in St. Bernard Parish where 2,000 bald cypress and water tupelo trees had been planted for coastal reinforcement. Since these trees are native to South Louisiana, they were well adapted to withstand cold snaps and occasional snowfall.

While native species demonstrated resilience, the freezing temperatures might have benefited Louisiana’s wetlands in another way—by reducing invasive species populations. Nutria, the destructive rodents native to South America, struggled in the cold, with many perishing due to their inability to adapt to sudden temperature drops. Schieble noted that these animals, which are notorious for devouring wetland vegetation, were unlikely to survive prolonged exposure to freezing weather.

Other invasive species in the states’ coastal wetlands, including water hyacinth and giant salvinia—both of which overtake Louisiana’s waterways during warmer months—were also expected to suffer significant die-offs. Since these plants are not cold-tolerant, experts predicted that the frigid weather would provide a temporary reprieve from their rapid spread.

However, not all coastal wetlands invasive species were impacted. Feral hogs, known for their ability to destroy vegetation and disrupt wetland ecosystems, were expected to survive. Schieble explained that their thick winter coats allowed them to withstand cold temperatures, making them one of the few unwelcome species that would persist despite the harsh conditions.

Overall, Louisiana’s coastal wetlands and wildlife proved resilient in the face of this rare cold event. While certain species, particularly non-native plants and animals, faced temporary losses, the foundational elements of the ecosystem remained intact. Scientists and conservationists will continue monitoring the effects of the cold spell, particularly on fish populations and the survival of black mangroves. However, for the most part, Louisiana’s wetlands emerged from the winter storm with their long-term stability unshaken.

For more Louisiana-related and even more coastal wetlands related articles, click here.

A Taste of the Gulf: Oyster Cakes with a Zesty Twist

There’s nothing quite like the rich, briny flavor of oysters paired with the crispy, golden crunch of a well-made cake. This recipe for Oyster Cakes with Spicy Mayo from Louisiana Cookin brings together the essence of coastal Southern cooking with a little bit of heat and a whole lot of flavor. This recipe is a fantastic way to repurpose leftover Oyster Dressing, transforming it into a dish that is both elegant and comforting. Whether you serve these as an appetizer, a main course, or a delightful snack, they are sure to impress with their blend of textures and bold flavors.

Ingredients:

  • 1 (8-ounce) container shucked oysters, drained well, quartered if large
  • 4 cups leftover Oyster Dressing (recipe to follow)
  • 4 cups cubed day-old French bread
  • 5 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
  • 3 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • ½ cup chopped yellow onion
  • 2 tablespoons minced garlic
  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons chopped spicy pickles
  • 2 tablespoons capers, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
  • 1 teaspoon chopped garlic
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon hot sauce
  • ½ teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 teaspoon Creole seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • Garnish: lemon slices

Preparing the Oyster Cakes:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. In a large bowl, combine the leftover Oyster Dressing with the beaten eggs. Mix until well incorporated.
  2. Shape the mixture into 8 evenly sized patties, using about ½ cup for each. If the mixture is sticky, lightly dust your hands with flour to help shape the cakes. Gently dredge the patties in the all-purpose flour, ensuring a light, even coating.
  3. Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Melt the butter and add the olive oil.
  4. Carefully place the patties in the skillet and cook until golden brown on each side, about 1 to 1½ minutes per side.
  5. Transfer the patties to a baking sheet and place them in the preheated oven. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center of the cakes registers 170°F.

Preparing the Oyster Dressing (Base for Oyster Cakes)

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly grease an 8-inch square baking dish with cooking spray.
  2. Place the cubed day-old French bread in the prepared dish. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate,reserving the bacon drippings in the skillet.
  3. In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic in the reserved bacon drippings. Stir frequently and cook until the onion becomes translucent, about 4 to 5 minutes. Spoon the onion mixture over the bread.
  4. In a medium bowl, whisk together the heavy whipping cream, eggs, salt, pepper, Creole seasoning, and Worcestershire sauce. Pour this mixture evenly over the bread and onion mixture.
  5. Add the crispy bacon and quartered oysters to the dish and toss until well combined.
  6. Cover the dish with foil and bake for approximately 45 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer registers 190°F in the center.
  7. Let cool completely, then cover and refrigerate overnight. The next day, it is ready to be used for the oyster cakes.

Oyster Cakes with Spicy Mayo are a wonderful way to celebrate the flavors of the Gulf Coast and make the most of leftover Oyster Dressing. Crispy on the outside, tender and flavorful on the inside, these cakes are the perfect balance of texture and taste. The spicy mayo adds a creamy, tangy kick that takes this dish to the next level. Whether served as a main course or an appetizer, these oyster cakes will quickly become a favorite at any gathering.

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How UL Lafayette Students Are Building the Future of Experiential Learning

A five-acre parcel of land near Arnaudville, Louisiana, is set to transform into a dynamic center for education, scientific exploration, sustainability initiatives, and cultural events. According to this new release from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, this ambitious project, named the Levity and Les Deux Bayous S.T.E.A.M. Park, is being spearheaded in part by students from UL Lafayette. Through their expertise in architecture and design, these students will play a significant role in both the planning and construction of the site.

The development of the S.T.E.A.M. Park is being guided by students from the UL Lafayette School of Architecture and Design, including both undergraduate and graduate participants. The project is multidisciplinary, involving students from architecture, industrial design, and interior design programs. Their involvement extends beyond design work, as they will also contribute to the physical construction of the park’s various structures.

The university’s role in the project is being coordinated by the School of Architecture and Design’s Building Institute. This institute facilitates experiential learning opportunities by allowing students to engage in community service-oriented projects that integrate academic coursework, practical research, and collaboration with industry professionals, including contractors, engineers, and suppliers. Additionally, these projects often lead to scholarly publications that document the students’ findings and innovations.

At the core of the initiative is the vision for a research and entertainment campground where science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics converge with music and cultural traditions. This fusion of disciplines will be reflected in the diverse offerings planned for the park. Features for the new UL Lafayette location will include a planetarium, an amphitheater, a sculpture garden, and a community garden. Additionally, plans include an artist’s residence, a farmer’s market, a woodshop, a native food forest, a sensory meditation area, a camping zone, a café, and a coffee roastery.

The first structure scheduled for construction is the Aqua House, a 70-foot by 30-foot bathhouse that will include showers and restroom facilities. The groundbreaking for this innovative building is expected to take place in the spring or summer. The Aqua House will be a testament to sustainability and modern construction techniques, as it will be built using modular blocks created from recycled plastic that would otherwise end up in landfills. These blocks are designed to interlock like Lego pieces, allowing for efficient and environmentally friendly assembly.

According to Geoff Gjertson, an architecture professor and director of the Building Institute, the use of these unconventional building materials reflects a deliberate effort by students to challenge traditional expectations for public bathhouses and restrooms. The interior design will incorporate porcelain tile flooring and walls reaching up to approximately the height of an average adult. Above this level, the structure will transition to the innovative plastic blocks, which are not only durable but also require minimal maintenance.

Gjertson further emphasized that the Aqua House is designed to be an inviting space, countering the typical perception of public restrooms as dark, enclosed areas. Instead, the structure will feature an open, airy design that maximizes natural light, creating a more pleasant and accessible environment for visitors.

The development of the S.T.E.A.M. Park is a collaborative effort involving two nonprofit organizations: Levity and Les Deux Bayous S.T.E.A.M. Park. Levity functions as a think tank and multidisciplinary space, while Les Deux Bayous S.T.E.A.M. Park is dedicated to promoting science, technology, entertainment, arts, and mathematics, along with cultural preservation and environmental stewardship. Together, these organizations and the university are working to solidify Arnaudville’s reputation as a cultural and educational hub.

The Building Institute has a history of contributing to Arnaudville’s cultural landscape. Since its founding in 2003, the institute has overseen 18 multi-semester projects involving more than 600 students. One of its notable projects is the House of Cards, a 256-square-foot artist’s retreat situated along Bayou Bourbeau.

For more education-related information, click here.

Retention and Recruitment: Louisiana’s Answer to Teacher Shortage

Over the past two years, Louisiana has seen a promising trend in its efforts to address the teacher shortage crisis that has plagued its public schools. According to data from the Louisiana Department of Education, the teacher workforce in traditional public schools grew by approximately 1,000 educators in the 2022-2023 academic year, marking the second consecutive year of workforce expansion. As per this article from The Advocate, this growth suggests that strategies implemented to retain educators and attract new talent are starting to show results.

The data reveals that fewer teachers are leaving their positions. In the 2023-24 school year, the percentage of teachers exiting traditional public school systems dropped from 15% to 13%. This improvement comes alongside a noteworthy increase in the number of individuals completing teacher preparation programs. For the first time in over a decade, the number of aspiring educators completing state-approved training programs rose by 13%, reaching 1,776 graduates in the 2022-23 school year.

While these signs of growth are encouraging, Louisiana continues to face significant hurdles. The teacher shortage remains acute in several subject areas, contributing to larger class sizes and placing additional pressure on those who stay in the profession.

The Louisiana Federation of Teachers, the state’s largest teachers’ union, highlights several reasons educators are leaving, including high workloads, oversized classes, and inadequate pay. Although the state’s recent data doesn’t directly address compensation as a factor for teacher attrition, broader studies paint a stark picture. Louisiana’s teachers earn, on average, $5,000 less than their peers in other Southern states and $15,000 less than the national average.

In a bid to address the wage gap, the state legislature approved a measure in November to permanently increase teacher salaries by $2,000 and support staff pay by $1,000. However, this measure is contingent on public approval of a constitutional amendment to unlock the necessary funding.

Surveys conducted by the Louisiana Federation of Teachers underscore the difficult conditions educators face. Nearly two-thirds of respondents reported having to oversee additional classes more than once a month due to a lack of substitute teachers. This staffing shortage has led to situations where schools with unfilled teaching positions must distribute students among other classrooms, sometimes exceeding the state’s legal class-size limits.

Louisiana educators also voiced concerns about the challenges of maintaining classroom discipline and autonomy in their teaching. These issues prompted state Superintendent of Education Cade Brumley to convene a task force of two dozen educators, who proposed several reforms to improve working conditions.

The recommendations from Brumley’s task force were approved by the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education in August and are expected to be implemented before the end of the current school year. These measures aim to provide teachers rated “effective” or higher with greater control over their teaching methods and lesson planning. Additionally, the reforms propose reducing mandatory teacher trainings and empowering educators to immediately remove disruptive students when their behavior disrupts the learning environment.

While these reforms and improvements are promising, sustained investment and attention are necessary to ensure long-term success. Addressing the teacher shortage not only involves retaining current educators but also creating an environment that attracts and supports new talent. Competitive salaries, manageable workloads, and supportive teaching conditions are critical for achieving this balance.

Louisiana’s case underscores the interconnected nature of teacher retention, recruitment, and working conditions.Supporting educators effectively requires a multifaceted approach that addresses financial, logistical, and professional development needs. By focusing on these areas, policymakers and educational leaders can create a more stable and thriving teaching workforce.

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