Tag: Louisiana education

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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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.

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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.

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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.

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How Louisiana Schools Are Improving Graduation Rates

The Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE) has announced a significant milestone in educational achievement with the release of the 2022-2023 graduation data. Overall graduation rates for Louisiana high schools has climbed to 83.2%, marking an upward trend from the 82.7% recorded in the previous year, as per this news release from LDOE. This increase not only underscores the hard work of educators and students but also reflects a larger statewide commitment to advancing educational outcomes.

In his comments on the data, Louisiana State Superintendent of Education Dr. Cade Brumley expressed his gratitude to educators and parents who played a crucial role in reaching this milestone. While he celebrated the rise in graduation rates, Brumley emphasized that the true goal remains preparing students for life beyond high school—whether in a career, college, or community service. He acknowledged the importance of maintaining this upward momentum and adding continued value to Louisiana diplomas by equipping students with skills relevant to their futures.

One of the most promising aspects of the report is the improvement in graduation rates for students with disabilities, which rose by 1.6 percentage points to reach 77.7%. This progress reflects Louisiana’s targeted efforts to provide support and resources that address the specific challenges faced by students with disabilities. For the third consecutive year, overall academic proficiency rates for this group of students have also improved, indicating steady advancement in providing equitable education.

  • Hiring a Special Education Ombudsman: Louisiana’s first special education ombudsman is tasked with improving family support and dispute resolution. This role provides families with a dedicated advocate, helping to resolve issues and build collaborative relationships between parents and schools.
  • Developing the Special Education Playbook for System Leaders: This resource compiles evidence-based strategies and lessons from schools that have successfully reduced learning gaps and accelerated outcomes for students with disabilities. This playbook offers school leaders a framework for creating supportive, inclusive learning environments.
  • On-site Technical Assistance and Professional Learning: To strengthen support across schools and districts, the LDOE has increased on-site technical assistance, allowing educators to receive targeted support that meets the unique needs of their students. Professional learning sessions have also been expanded, giving teachers and administrators the tools they need to foster inclusive and effective classroom environments.

Louisiana high schools collectively graduated 40,930 students in the 2022-2023 school year, an increase from the 40,648 graduates in the previous year. This rise in graduates showcases the growing strength of Louisiana’s education system, and signals the state’s dedication to supporting students in completing their high school education.

In June, Louisiana’s State Board of Education approved a revised accountability system to be implemented in the 2025-2026 school year. This new system aims to raise academic expectations for students, schools, and entire districts. It focuses on core academic subjects and career readiness, creating a pathway for students to gain meaningful work experience before graduating. The system also acknowledges schools that offer robust work-based learning opportunities, which align with the state’s vision of producing graduates who are prepared for both college and the workforce.

The latest graduation and proficiency data provide a snapshot of Louisiana’s progress and challenges in education. With rising graduation rates, improved outcomes for students with disabilities, and steady mastery levels, Louisiana is positioned to continue its upward trajectory in educational performance. The state’s renewed focus on accountability, teacher support, and family engagement highlights its commitment to ensuring that every student has access to a quality education that prepares them for life beyond high school.

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Engineering Program Expands with UNO Partnership

Nicholls State University recently took a transformative step toward advancing its local engineering program by establishing the Wm. Clifford Smith School of Engineering. This initiative, made possible by a generous $1 million donation from the family of Clifford Smith, honors the deep-rooted legacy of Clifford Smith, a respected civil engineer and land surveyor. In partnership with the University of New Orleans (UNO), this new school will enable students to obtain a comprehensive engineering degree, combining advanced academic instruction and hands-on industry experience, right in the Bayou Region, as per this news article from The Nicholls Worth.

The development of the Wm. Clifford Smith School of Engineering aligns with Nicholls’ commitment to providing relevant, career-oriented education to its students and further enhances the region’s educational landscape. Through their partnership with UNO, Nicholls can offer students a streamlined pathway to earn an engineering degree without needing to relocate to other regions, addressing a longstanding challenge for aspiring engineers in the area.

At the core of Nicholls’ vision for the Wm. Clifford Smith School of Engineering is its partnership with the University of New Orleans. This collaboration allows students at Nicholls to pursue an engineering degree through the established program offered by UNO. By bridging academic offerings between the two institutions, students in the Bayou Regiongain access to specialized engineering education that aligns with the current demands of the industry. This partnership empowers students to stay rooted in their community while achieving their professional goals, making it an appealing option for many who may have otherwise faced challenges in obtaining a comprehensive engineering education locally.

Alongside the academic benefits, the new school of engineering at Nicholls also opens doors for meaningful industry experience. Students pursuing an engineering degree will have access to internships with a leading regional engineering firm, allowing them to gain valuable, hands-on knowledge. The internships provide students with the skills and experience essential to their careers and offer local businesses the opportunity to contribute to the next generation of engineers who may eventually strengthen the regional workforce.

Clifford Smith’s family played a pivotal role in the development of the new school, motivated by their desire to honor his contributions to the field and to the Bayou community. Clifford’s son, Kenneth Smith, recounted the profound impact his father had on both the engineering industry and the local community, noting that his father’s career began through his work alongside his own father, T. Baker Smith, at their family business. T. Baker Smith founded the self-named firm in 1913, and following his passing in 1962, the company leadership was entrusted to Clifford. Under Clifford’s guidance, the firm became a mainstay in the Bayou Region’s engineering landscape, gaining a reputation for excellence and integrity.

According to Kenneth, Clifford’s legacy as a civil engineer and land surveyor “left an indelible mark on our profession and community.” Over the years, the T. Baker Smith firm has hired numerous Nicholls graduates, creating a strong bond between the institution and the firm. Kenneth highlighted this connection, expressing that the quality of Nicholls graduates has always been a testament to the value of Nicholls’ educational impact and alignment with industry standards.

Nicholls State University President Jay Clune expressed deep gratitude for the support of the Smith family, noting that this “generous gift” is a tribute not only to Clifford Smith but also to the Bayou Region as a whole. Clune emphasized that Clifford Smith’s name symbolizes “high-quality engineering and land surveying” and his contributions have extended beyond Nicholls to positively influence the entire region.

As the program evolves, Nicholls anticipates that the Wm. Clifford Smith School of Engineering will become a cornerstone of regional engineering excellence. By fostering local talent and maintaining strong connections with regional firms, the school will contribute meaningfully to the Bayou Region’s industry and economy, offering both an academic and economic boost to the local community.

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