Tag: Louisiana education

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.

For more education-related information, click here.

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.

For more education-related information, click here.

Nicholls MBA Program Ranks Among Top 50 with New Concentrations

In an effort to meet the ever-evolving demands of the business world, Nicholls State University’s Al Danos College of Business is significantly enhancing its Master of Business Administration (MBA) program. Beginning in the spring 2025 semester, the program will feature three new concentrations: Data Analytics, Human Resource Management, and Supply Chain Management, as per this news release from Nicholls. Applications for these specialized tracks are now open, signaling an exciting new chapter for the university’s graduate education offerings.

The decision to introduce these concentrations stems from careful consultation with top industry leaders across the region. This collaboration ensures that the program aligns closely with the needs of the business community, equipping graduates with the skills and knowledge required to succeed in a competitive and rapidly changing global economy. By focusing on high-demand sectors, the Al Danos College of Business aims to position its graduates as highly sought-after professionals.

Dr. Marilyn Macik-Frey, Dean of the Al Danos College of Business, emphasized the significance of these additions. She explained that the university recognizes a growing need for professionals with expertise in pivotal areas such as data analysis, strategic human resource leadership, and supply chain management. The newly-introduced concentrations are specifically tailored to address these demands, providing students with practical skills and specialized knowledge. “Our goal is to equip students with the expertise to excel in today’s job market,” Dr. Macik-Freynoted, highlighting the program’s commitment to preparing students for future opportunities by designing courses that reflect current business trends.

Each of the new concentrations offers a unique focus designed to prepare students for leadership roles in their chosen fields:

  1. Data Analytics: In this concentration, students will develop advanced skills in analyzing large data sets to derive actionable business insights. As data-driven decision-making becomes increasingly integral to organizational success, professionals trained in this area will be well-equipped to guide businesses toward informed strategies.
  2. Human Resource Management: This track emphasizes strategic leadership in human resources, focusing on talent management, organizational development, and workforce planning. Graduates will be prepared to lead HR initiatives that foster organizational growth and adapt to evolving workplace dynamics.
  3. Supply Chain Management: Students in this concentration will learn how to efficiently manage the flow of goods and services within the context of a globalized economy. This track addresses the critical need for professionals who can optimize supply chains and navigate complex logistical challenges.

These concentrations are not only a response to industry trends but also a reflection of the university’s broader mission. Nicholls State University is committed to providing an accessible, high-quality education that meets the needs of today’s students and anticipates the demands of tomorrow’s workforce. The addition of these concentrations underscores this commitment, offering students the tools they need to thrive in industries that are integral to the modern economy.

The MBA program at Nicholls has already received national recognition, ranking among America’s top 50 graduate programs, according to Money Magazine in February 2024. This accolade considered factors such as annual costs, typical debt burdens, employment rates, and graduate salaries. The introduction of these new concentrations is expected to further enhance the program’s reputation and appeal to prospective students.

As businesses continue to adapt to advancements in technology, economic shifts, and global challenges, the need for highly skilled professionals in specialized fields is more critical than ever. The new concentrations in Data Analytics, Human Resource Management, and Supply Chain Management are designed to ensure that Nicholls MBA graduates not only meet but exceed these expectations. By aligning academic offerings with real-world needs, Nicholls State University is cultivating the next generation of business leaders who are prepared to navigate and shape the future.

For more education-related information, click here.

Louisiana Education Shines Nationally: Fourth Place in New Study

The Louisiana education system has achieved remarkable progress, ranking fourth nationally in a newly revisited study based on the 2022 National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), often called the Nation’s Report Card, as per this new release from The Louisiana Department of Education. This accomplishment is particularly noteworthy as it represents a significant leap from the state’s 20th-place ranking in a similar analysis from 2019. The report highlights Louisiana’s commitment to improving education outcomes while addressing demographic factors that impact student performance.

The study, conducted by the Urban Institute, adjusts NAEP scores based on demographic variables such as income levels, ethnicity, language barriers, and exceptionalities. This method aims to provide a clearer picture of how well states are supporting their students relative to those with similar challenges. Published since 2015, this analysis offers a nuanced understanding of educational performance across the nation, emphasizing growth and equity.

The 2022 NAEP marked the first time the assessment was administered since 2019, after being paused due to theCOVID-19 pandemic. This return provided a critical opportunity to measure how states have rebounded in key academic areas. Louisiana’s adjusted ranking of fourth overall reflects a strong recovery and targeted efforts to support students and teachers. The results highlight Louisiana’s ability to make strides not only in overall performance but also in closing achievement gaps for underserved populations.

The NAEP results align with other indicators of Louisiana’s educational success. A joint study by Harvard and Stanford noted that Louisiana’s reading scores in 2023 were higher than in 2019, making it one of only three states to achieve this milestone. The study also praised Louisiana’s math recovery, which surpassed national trends.

Additionally, the state moved from 46th to 40th in U.S. News & World Report’s Best States rankings for PK-12 education, reflecting improvements across multiple metrics. Louisiana has also seen three consecutive years of growth in its school performance scores, surpassing pre-pandemic levels and reaching a new statewide high under the current evaluation system.

Dr. Cade Brumley, Louisiana’s State Superintendent of Education, credited a “back-to-basics” approach for these achievements. He explained that the state’s efforts to support teachers and focus on fundamental student outcomes have driven this progress. However, he emphasized that there is still work to be done, noting that Louisiana is committed to making bold decisions to sustain and accelerate its upward trajectory.

One area of focus has been early literacy. Louisiana ranked first in a national list recognizing states with comprehensive policies to promote foundational reading skills. These policies aim to ensure students can achieve academic success and reach their full potential.

The Nation’s Report Card serves as the most comprehensive and representative assessment of student performance in the United States. Administered biennially since 2003, it evaluates fourth and eighth graders in reading and math. As the “gold standard” of student assessments, NAEP provides valuable insights into how well states prepare their students for future academic and professional success.

While the 2022 NAEP showed troubling declines in many states due to the pandemic, Louisiana stood out by avoiding dramatic losses and achieving notable growth. These results highlight the resilience of Louisiana’s students and educators, as well as the effectiveness of targeted policies and interventions. With the next NAEP assessment scheduled for 2024 and results expected in early 2025, Louisiana has an opportunity to build on its recent successes. Continued investment in teacher support, literacy initiatives, and equitable resources will be critical to maintaining this momentum.

Louisiana’s rise in national rankings demonstrates the power of focused, data-driven strategies in transforming education systems. By addressing demographic challenges head-on and prioritizing foundational skills, the state is paving the way for sustained academic growth and opportunity for all students.

For more education-related information, click here.

Building a Math Foundation: Louisiana’s Statewide Strategy

Mathematics plays a pivotal role in shaping students’ critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, skills essential for success in today’s rapidly evolving world. Recognizing this, the Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO) recently released a report, A Nation of Problem-Solvers: How State Leaders Can Help Every Student Achieve in Math, that highlights actionable strategies for improving math outcomes nationwide. As per this news release from The Louisiana Department of Education, the report commends Louisiana’s exceptional efforts as a model for advancing math education, spotlighting its high-dosage tutoring initiatives as a promising practice for other states to emulate.

Louisiana’s dedication to enhancing math education has drawn praise for its innovative approach to addressing student learning gaps. Among the highlighted initiatives is the Accelerate Math program, a state-designed effort to promote high-dosage tutoring aligned with high-quality curricula. This initiative provides local school systems with financial support and guidance for implementing effective tutoring programs. In addition to tutoring during the school year, the program emphasizes summer learning opportunities, ensuring students have consistent access to resources that bolster their mathematical understanding.

Dr. Cade Brumley, Louisiana’s State Superintendent of Education, emphasized the importance of foundational math skills during a recent statement. He noted that these skills are crucial for elementary students, forming the basis for future academic and professional success. Dr. Brumley also reaffirmed Louisiana’s commitment to accelerating progress in this vital area, highlighting the state’s vision of equipping every student with the tools needed to excel in math.

The resilience and progress of Louisiana students in recovering from pandemic-related learning losses were praised in a joint study by Harvard and Stanford Universities. The Education Recovery Scorecard described Louisiana’s efforts as “a remarkable achievement,” pointing out that from 2019 to 2023, students in the state regained nearly half of their original math learning loss. This progress significantly outpaced the national average, where students typically made up only one-third of the losses. Louisiana’s success underscores the effectiveness of targeted interventions like high-dosage tutoring and highlights the potential for similar programs to yield positive results elsewhere.

As the organization behind the report, CCSSO serves as a critical advocate for education policy across the United States. This nonpartisan nonprofit represents leaders from elementary and secondary education departments in states, territories, and federal jurisdictions. Through leadership, advocacy, and technical assistance, CCSSOfacilitates the sharing of best practices and ensures state leaders can make informed decisions to improve student outcomes.

The report, A Nation of Problem-Solvers, underscores the importance of state leadership in driving meaningful improvements in math education. CCSSO’s vision encourages state chiefs to adopt evidence-based strategies, integrating data and local context into broader educational policies. By fostering collaboration among diverse stakeholders, state leaders can create comprehensive strategies to address learning gaps, improve instructional quality, and build systems that support long-term success.

The CCSSO report reiterates that math is more than just a subject; it is a cornerstone of modern education. Strong mathematical skills not only prepare students for academic achievement but also open doors to career opportunities in industries such as technology, engineering, finance, and healthcare. In a world increasingly defined by innovation and complexity, ensuring equitable access to high-quality math education is a fundamental responsibility of educational leaders.

Louisiana’s recognition as a national leader in math education is a testament to the power of targeted initiatives and strong leadership. Programs like Accelerate Math demonstrate how strategic investments in resources such as high-dosage tutoring can yield significant improvements in student outcomes. As other states look to Louisiana as a model, the broader message of the CCSSO report is clear: transformative change in math education is possible when state leaders commit to evidence-based, collaborative strategies. By prioritizing mathematics, we can equip future generations with the skills they need to navigate and excel in a complex world.

For more education-related information, click here.