Tag: Louisiana education

National Recognition for UL Lafayette’s Premier Online MBA Program

The University of Louisiana at Lafayette’s B.I. Moody III College of Business Administration has once again earned significant recognition for its online MBA program, as per this article from The University of Louisiana at Lafayette. . This year, the program has secured the 70th spot on Fortune Education’s Best Online MBA Programs for 2024 list. This accolade marks the fourth consecutive year that the program has featured in these prestigious rankings since their inception in 2021.

Fortune Education’s methodology for ranking these programs is comprehensive. The criteria include the presence of alumni in executive positions at Fortune 1000 companies, the program’s brand recognition based on online search volume, tuition costs, retention and graduation rates, and overall enrollment. Such rigorous evaluation ensures that only the most robust and effective MBA programs make the list.

This particular recognition is just one of many that the University’s online MBA program has received this year. In addition to the nod from Fortune Education, the program has also been acknowledged by U.S. News and World Report, CEO Magazine, and the Princeton Review. This suite of recognitions highlights the program’s consistency and excellence among national peers.

Robert Viguerie, the associate dean for graduate and executive programs at the B.I. Moody III College of Business Administration, remarked that such recognition is to be expected from their programs, whether delivered online or in-person. He emphasized the College’s elite status, noting that it is among the top 1% of business schools globally and within the top 10% in the United States, boasting dual accreditation in both business and accounting. Viguerie underscored that this elite status is grounded in objective criteria rather than subjective opinions.

The online MBA program at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette offers a fully online curriculum identical to that of the on-campus program. Students can choose from nine different concentrations, including healthcare, finance, and project management, allowing for specialized study tailored to diverse career paths. The tuition rate for this program is competitively set at $388 per credit hour, making it an attractive option for many prospective students.

Dr. Mary Farmer-Kaiser, dean of the University’s Graduate School, noted that the program’s high ranking is a testament to the quality and dedication of the faculty. She praised the graduate faculty for their dual engagement in academic research and practical application, which enriches the learning experience for students. This integration of theory and practice equips students with the necessary skills to excel as leaders in their industries and communities.

Fortune Education’s goal, as stated on their site, is to aid aspiring business leaders and managers in navigating the complex landscape of business schools. By ranking over 90 qualified business schools, Fortune provides a valuable resource for prospective students seeking the best online MBA programs. The most recent update to these rankings was in May 2024.

At the University of Louisiana–Lafayette, the admissions process for the online MBA program is designed to be accessible. Standardized testing is not generally a requirement for admission, although it may be necessary in certain circumstances. For applicants with an undergraduate GPA below 2.74, letters of recommendation are required to support their application. The program maintains an average class size of 90 students for core courses, ensuring a balanced and engaging learning environment.

The University of Louisiana at Lafayette’s online MBA program continues to set a high standard in business education. Its consistent recognition by multiple esteemed entities underscores its commitment to providing a rigorous, relevant, and respected educational experience. With a faculty deeply engaged in both scholarship and real-world application, students are well-prepared to become influential leaders in their fields.

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Resurgence In National Rankings in Louisiana’s Educational System

Louisiana’s dedication to Pre-K-12 education has seen a notable upswing, as reflected in the latest U.S. News & World Report Best States national rankings. Moving from its previous position of 41st to 40th place, this marks the state’s highest ranking yet in this national evaluation, as per this this news release from the Louisiana Department of Education. This positive trajectory follows closely on the heels of a significant leap of five places in the preceding year.

Dr. Cade Brumley, Louisiana’s State Superintendent of Education, expressed his optimism about this progress, attributing it to the concerted efforts of both students and educators. He noted, however, that there remains more ground to cover in ensuring a high-quality education for every student.

The improvement in the national rankings for  Louisiana’s educational landscape can be attributed to several key factors. There has been a fundamental shift in teaching methodologies, particularly in the realm of literacy instruction. Emphasis has been placed on bolstering foundational math skills and preparing students for both college and career paths. Moreover, bold policy decisions have underscored a return to basics approach in education.

BESE President Ronnie Morris echoed Dr. Brumley’s sentiments, commending the relentless dedication of educators and stakeholders towards fostering positive outcomes for students. He emphasized the collaborative efforts between policymakers, educators, and stakeholders as pivotal in driving this success.

The data corroborates the strides made by Louisiana’s education system. Notably, the state witnessed an improvement in average reading achievement levels, surpassing those recorded in 2019. Furthermore, Louisiana was recognized for its comprehensive early literacy policy, which lays the groundwork for students to thrive academically. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, Louisiana has managed to surpass its pre-pandemic school performance scores, indicative of sustained growth.

High school students in Louisiana achieved record-breaking results on Advanced Placement tests, underscoring the efficacy of the state’s educational initiatives. Additionally, the Class of 2023 saw a notable increase in the average ACT scores, defying the national trend. The LEAP scores, a measure of student proficiency, also witnessed a steady uptick, with 75% of school systems showing improvement.

Louisiana’s 4th graders emerged as national leaders in reading growth, a testament to the effectiveness of targeted interventions. Furthermore, the state’s overall ranking on the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP)improved significantly, moving from 46th to 42nd place between 2019 and 2022.

The U.S. News & World Report’s Pre-K-12 ranking serves as a barometer for state-level educational performance, encompassing various metrics such as preschool enrollment, standardized test scores, high school graduation rates, and college readiness. Louisiana’s commendable performance on these fronts underscores its commitment to educational excellence.

The recent state rankings released by U.S. News & World Report further validate Louisiana’s educational strides. The state’s upward trajectory, particularly in Pre-K-12 education, signifies a step in the right direction. Dr. Brumley acknowledged the collective efforts of educators and policymakers in driving this positive change while acknowledging the need for continued progress.

This improvement in national rankings aligns with the encouraging findings from NAEP, where Louisiana’s 4th graders outperformed their peers nationwide in reading proficiency. Over the past four years, Louisiana has consistently improved its overall Pre-K-12 ranking, making noteworthy advancements across various categories including college readiness, high school graduation rates, and academic proficiency.

In summary, Louisiana’s ascent in national education rankings is a testament to its unwavering commitment to educational excellence. Through collaborative efforts and targeted interventions, the state has made significant strides in improving educational outcomes for its students. However, this journey towards educational equity and excellence is ongoing, and continued efforts are essential to sustain this momentum.

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University View Academy Leap into Learning Pods

University View Academy, Louisiana’s largest school, embarked on a groundbreaking initiative by venturing into the realm of learning pods after conducting 13 years of exclusively online education, as per this article from The Advocate. This strategic shift positioned UVA as the third charter school operator in the state to openly embrace this innovative concept. Learning pods, characterized by smaller, personalized settings that blend online and face-to-face instruction, have gained momentum among charter schools in Louisiana, offering a viable solution to extend educational access beyond traditional geographic boundaries.

Dr. Quentina Timoll, the superintendent of University View, emphasized the institution’s commitment to adaptability and responsiveness to the evolving needs of students and the community at large. With approval to accommodate up to 4,000 students, UVA aims to establish specialized pods tailored to address specific educational gaps and preferences within different localities. The decision to adopt learning pods was also driven by financial considerations. Unlike virtual charter schools, which receive only 90% of public funding, students in learning pods are entitled to 100%, making it a more financially sustainable model for UVA.

The inception of learning pods traces back to Charter Schools USA, the leading charter school network in Louisiana, which spearheaded the concept and advocated for its legislative endorsement in 2021. However, the emergence of learning pods prompted regulatory scrutiny, as evidenced by a critical audit conducted by TenSquare, prompting policymakers to refine regulations governing these alternative educational models.

Despite the challenges and complexities associated with this transition, University View Academy remains steadfast in its commitment to innovation and expansion. Timoll highlighted the imperative of continuous adaptation to sustain relevance in an increasingly competitive educational landscape, characterized by the proliferation of alternative schooling options such as education savings accounts.

The genesis of UVA’s pod initiative stemmed from grassroots demands, with parents seeking a more cohesive educational experience for their children. Through meticulous planning and stakeholder engagement, UVA aspires to offer specialized pods catering to diverse interests, ranging from aquaponics to music, thereby enriching the educational experience for students.

As University View Academy embarks on this transformative journey, it views the pod initiative as a pilot program aimed at refining future expansion endeavors. Timoll emphasized the pivotal role of innovation in navigating the evolving educational terrain, underscoring the imperative of staying attuned to shifting paradigms and emerging competition.

The collaborative efforts of parents, students, teachers, and community stakeholders underscore the inclusive nature of UVA’s pod initiative. By soliciting input from various stakeholders, UVA ensures that its educational offerings are not only relevant but also responsive to the diverse interests and aspirations of its student body.

As University View Academy embarks on this transformative journey, it remains guided by a steadfast commitment to innovation and excellence. Through ongoing refinement and evaluation, UVA seeks to optimize its pod initiative to maximize educational outcomes and enhance student experiences. Quentina Timoll’s leadership underscores the institution’s proactive stance towards innovation and adaptability. With the flexibility to accommodate up to 4,000 students, UVA is well-positioned to establish specialized pods tailored to address specific educational demands and preferences within different localities across Louisiana.

In essence, University View Academy’s embrace of learning pods signifies a bold step towards redefining the future of education in Louisiana. By fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration, UVA sets a precedent for educational institutions nationwide, demonstrating the transformative power of adaptability and vision in shaping the educational landscape of tomorrow.

In conclusion, University View Academy’s foray into learning pods signifies a paradigm shift in education, marked by adaptability, innovation, and responsiveness to evolving societal needs. As the institution charts its course towards future growth and renewal, it remains poised to navigate the dynamic landscape of education with resilience and foresight.

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Nicholls Foundation Give-N-Day 2024: A Journey of Generosity

The philanthropic efforts of the Nicholls Foundation  have once again garnered remarkable success, as evidenced by the remarkable outcome of its seventh Give-N-Day event in 2024. The event, which serves as a pivotal fundraising platform for the University’s departments and student organizations, has managed to amass a staggering sum of over $1.2 million in contributions, as per this news release from Nicholls State University.

In the latest installment of the Nicholls Foundation led Give-N-Day, the generosity of over 1,300 donors culminated in a total of 1,850 donations, collectively amounting to over $205,000. These funds hold the promise of significant impact, with 128 Nicholls organizations set to benefit, each assured of receiving at least one donation. What’s particularly heartening is the diverse array of contributors; not only did over 25% of donors identify themselves as Nicholls alumni, but over 38% of the gifts hailed from alumni, and more than 18% from Nicholls faculty or staff members. The spirit of generosity transcended geographical boundaries, with donations pouring in from 36 states and 11 countries. Moreover, a noteworthy 18% of donors opted to support multiple organizations, reflecting a commendable commitment to the University’s multifaceted endeavors.

Expressing profound gratitude for this overwhelming display of support, Jeremy Becker, Executive Director of the Nicholls Foundation, conveyed, “The entire Nicholls family is extremely grateful for the support from the Nicholls Community. More and more campus organizations are able to offer more experiences and opportunities for students because of the funds raised from this and all Give-N-Day events.”

The tangible impact of these contributions is underscored by the achievements of various programs that distinguished themselves on the Give-N-Day leaderboard. Topping the charts in terms of funds raised was the Bridge to Independence initiative, which garnered an impressive $19,170. Noteworthy mentions include the Colonel ESports program with $17,055, the Colonel Athletic Association Track & Field/Cross Country with $9,670, and the Accounting Program with $9,196, among others. Equally commendable was the remarkable show of support in terms of individual donations, with Bridge to Independence securing the highest number of contributions at 107.

However, behind these numbers lies a profound narrative of empowerment and inclusivity, epitomized by the Bridge to Independence program. At Nicholls State University, this pioneering initiative provides students with Intellectual Disabilities or Autism Spectrum Disorder the opportunity to immerse themselves in the college experience while honing essential leadership and social skills crucial for future employment and independent living. Positioned within the nurturing environment of Nicholls, recognized for its familial atmosphere and esteemed for being the safest campus in the UL system, the Bridge to Independence program stands as a beacon of inclusivity and support.

Certified by the U.S. Department of Education and heralded as Louisiana’s inaugural program of its kind, Bridge to Independence offers a comprehensive suite of support services, enabling eligible students to engage in regular classes, partake in campus activities, and even join organizations. Central to its success are the peer mentors, meticulously trained within the Nicholls College of Education and Behavioral Sciences, who provide invaluable assistance with coursework and foster social integration. In essence, Give-N-Day not only serves as a testament to the unwavering commitment of the Nicholls community but also embodies the transformative power of collective generosity in advancing educational opportunities and fostering inclusivity.

In conclusion, the resounding success of Give-N-Day 2024 not only showcases the remarkable generosity within the Nicholls community but also underscores the profound impact of collective philanthropy in advancing educational opportunities and fostering inclusivity. As we reflect on the achievements of this event, let us continue to celebrate the spirit of giving that propels us forward, united in our shared commitment to empowering education and enriching lives.

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Unlocking Success: Louisiana’s Bold Steps in Early Literacy

Louisiana has proudly ascended to the pinnacle of a national ranking, standing tall as a beacon of excellence in early literacy policies, as per this news release from the Louisiana Department of Education. According to the recently unveiled Early Literacy Matters resource by ExcelinEd, Louisiana finds itself in an elite group of states, standing shoulder to shoulder with Arkansas and North Carolina, as the only trio to have fervently embraced all 18 of ExcelinEd’s early literacy fundamental principles.

Dr. Cade Brumley, Louisiana State Superintendent of Education, expressed his satisfaction at the state’s achievements, remarking, “I was intentional about calling out our state’s literacy crisis early in my tenure and am pleased to see Louisiana leading the way with common sense reading reforms.” Dr. Brumley commended the concerted efforts of policymakers, educators, and parents, highlighting their crucial role in ensuring Louisiana studentsreap the benefits of these bold educational reforms.

The 18 early literacy fundamental principles underscore a comprehensive approach, encompassing policies for early identification, family engagement, teacher training and support, as well as intensive reading intervention. These principles serve as a robust foundation to equip students with the essential reading skills vital for their learning journey, graduation, and future success.

Among the noteworthy aspects of Louisiana’s commitment to literacy, the state mandates that all K–3 teachers undergo science of reading training. Additionally, a universal reading screener for K–3 students, parental notification for those identified with reading difficulties, elimination of three-cueing systems, and individualized reading plans for students with reading deficiencies are integral components of the state’s comprehensive literacy plan. Louisianastands out for monitoring students’ progress within a multi-tiered system of support and targeting their needs through evidence-based interventions grounded in the science of reading.

Joining the ranks of Louisiana, Arkansas, and North Carolina, Mississippi and Florida trail closely behind with a score of 17 out of 18, while Texas achieved a commendable 10 out of 18.

Deputy Superintendent Dr. Jenna Chiasson emphasized the need for sustained dedication and innovation, recognizing that progress in early literacy requires continuous effort. The results, she noted, reflect the positive impact of Louisiana’s commitment to early literacy, with advancements apparent both in classrooms and legislative initiatives.

Louisiana’s strides in literacy are evident in the Education Recovery Scorecard, revealing that the state is among the select few where average reading achievement in 2023 surpassed 2019 levels. Furthermore, Louisiana’s 4th graders soared to the top spot nationally for reading growth on The Nation’s Report Card, showcasing the effectiveness of the statewide initiative. Economically disadvantaged 4th graders in Louisiana demonstrated a remarkable improvement, moving from 42nd to 11th overall for reading proficiency between 2019 and 2022.

The Early Literacy Matters resource emerges as a crucial educational tool, addressing the paramount issue of learning to read. This pioneering website offers a 50-state literacy map, presenting a comprehensive overview of each state’s adoption of early literacy fundamentals. It not only serves as a legislative compass but also delves into states’ implementation strategies, providing insights into how they are enhancing literacy outcomes and narrowing learning gaps.

ExcelinEd, the driving force behind this initiative, remains committed to supporting state leaders in transforming education. Their focus on educational quality, innovation, and opportunity, both within and outside the traditional system, positions them as advocates for a broad range of student-centered policies.

In conclusion, Louisiana’s position at the forefront of the national list for its comprehensive literacy policy reflects a commendable commitment to fostering early literacy skills. The state’s success story offers valuable lessons for educators, policymakers, and parents nationwide. As we celebrate these achievements, it becomes essential to understand the core concepts that underpin effective early literacy policies.

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Navigating the Future: Insights from Louisiana’s Teacher Preparation Data

The Louisiana Department of Education has recently unveiled the 2023 data for the Teacher Preparation Quality Rating System, marking a significant milestone in the state’s ongoing efforts to enhance the quality of teacher preparation programs, according to this news release from LDOE. This system, mandated by federal regulations, serves as a crucial tool for teacher preparation providers to glean insightful information for improvement. Simultaneously, it empowers aspiring educators with the means to make informed decisions when selecting top-notch programs.

In the extensive library of the Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE), one can now explore the Quality Rating Scores from the 2020-2021 school year. Remarkably, these scores have reached their pinnacle since the system’s initiation in the 2017-2018 academic year. The data paints a positive picture, with over 95 percent of Louisiana’s teacher preparation provider programs either maintaining or advancing their ratings.

Delving into the specifics, the state’s undergraduate pathway achieved a score increase of 0.6, reaching a commendable 2.6, classified as Level 3 Effective. Similarly, the post-baccalaureate pathway witnessed a boost of 0.4, securing a 2.8, also categorized as Level 3 Effective. To grasp these nuances, it’s essential to comprehend that an undergraduate teacher preparation pathway entails the completion of a Bachelor of Arts or Science degree program. On the other hand, a post-baccalaureate pathway is tailored for individuals with an existing Bachelor’s degree seeking alternative certification.

An encouraging trend emerges as post-baccalaureate pathways consistently outperform their undergraduate counterparts. The data reveals that 78% of pathways either improved their score or maintained the same, and an even more impressive 85% increased their level or maintained it. Additionally, more than half (52%) of the pathways elevated their domain score for Meeting Workforce Needs, emphasizing a critical aspect of teacher preparation.

What sets this year apart is the Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education’s (BESE) decision to utilize the results for ongoing program approval decisions. Unlike previous years, where the data served informational purposes only, 2023 signifies a pivotal shift towards a more action-oriented approach.

Understanding the significance of a teacher preparation program is vital. These are post-secondary, state-approved courses of study, indicating that enrolled teacher candidates have fulfilled all state educational and training prerequisites to be recommended for initial certification. The Teacher Preparation Quality Rating System evaluates providers on a four-point scale: Level 1 Ineffective, Level 2 Needs Improvement, Level 3 Effective, and Level 4 Highly Effective.

This rating is grounded in three domains:

These domain-specific insights are indispensable tools for aspiring teachers in choosing programs that align with their needs. Moreover, they aid providers and the LDOE in making informed decisions regarding the necessary support for continuous improvement.

It’s worth noting that the LDOE’s commitment to transparency and guidance for educators is not a recent development. In 2021, the initial results of the Teacher Preparation Quality Rating System were shared, and the year before, the collaborative effort of the LDOE, Louisiana Board of Regents, and BESE resulted in the launch of LouisianaTeacherPrep.com. This online platform serves as a valuable resource for prospective educators, facilitating the selection of a teacher preparation program that best suits their aspirations.

In conclusion, Louisiana’s Teacher Preparation Quality Rating System data for 2023 reflects a positive trajectory, showcasing advancements in teacher preparation programs. The focus on transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement is evident, reinforcing the state’s commitment to fostering a high-quality education system.

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