Tag: Louisiana Schools

Louisiana Sets the Standard for Transparent School Accountability

Louisiana’s approach to evaluating schools recently earned national attention after being highlighted as a leading example of education and school accountability in the United States. In the 2026 Education Policy Playbook, released by ExcelinEd, the state’s revised school grading system was praised for its transparency and focus on measurable student outcomes, as per this news release from LDOE. That recognition, also highlighted by the Louisiana Department of Education, positioned Louisiana as a model for other states seeking clearer and more effective ways to evaluate school performance.

Education leaders in Louisiana have spent years refining how school performance is measured. According to State Superintendent of Education Dr. Cade Brumley, the state’s reforms reflect a broader effort to strengthen academic achievement while ensuring families have clear information about school quality. The revised system aligns with the state’s larger education priorities and presents accountability in a way that is easier for the public to understand while still maintaining rigorous expectations.

The recognition came from ExcelinEd, a national education nonprofit known for advising state policymakers on reforms designed to improve student achievement. Its annual Education Policy Playbook outlines accountability ideas and policy strategies that state leaders can use when developing school systems. In that report, Louisiana was identified as the national exemplar for how states can measure and communicate school performance effectively.

The playbook specifically pointed to Louisiana’s accountability framework, Grow. Achieve. Thrive. The system was praised for using a formula that is both rigorous and understandable. Rather than leaning on overly technical measures that can be hard for parents and communities to interpret, the framework centers on three core goals that track student success across multiple stages of schooling.

Louisiana’s revised accountability model focuses on helping students progress academically, reach proficiency in core subjects, and graduate ready for the future. The Louisiana Department of Education describes the framework through three clear priorities that give schools and families a shared understanding of success.

  • Grow focuses on yearly academic progress. Schools are evaluated on whether students demonstrate meaningful improvement in their learning from one year to the next. This part of the framework recognizes that growth matters greatly, especially for students who may begin below grade level.
  • Achieve measures whether students meet grade-level proficiency standards in key academic subjects. By emphasizing proficiency, the system keeps schools focused on helping students master foundational skills in areas such as reading, writing, and mathematics.
  • Thrive looks at long-term outcomes, especially whether students graduate prepared for what comes next. In Louisiana’s model, readiness includes preparation for college, career pathways, or military service. This final category connects school performance to the practical question of whether students are leaving high school with real options and real preparation.

Together, those three priorities create a balanced scorecard designed to measure both immediate academic progress and long-term readiness. That balance is one reason the ExcelinEd playbook held up Louisiana as an example other states may study.

The revised framework will begin generating official school performance scores in late 2026, reflecting data from the 2025–2026 school year. When those scores are released, families, educators, and policymakers will gain a clearer picture of how schools are performing across the state through the lens of Grow. Achieve. Thrive.

Supporters of the system believe the framework will provide a stronger and more useful picture of school quality than older accountability models. By emphasizing growth, proficiency, and readiness after graduation, Louisiana is aiming to show not only how students perform on paper, but also how well schools prepare them for life after high school.

As Louisiana moves toward releasing its first official results under the Grow. Achieve. Thrive. framework, the state’s national recognition suggests these accountability reforms may shape broader conversations about how school quality should be measured in the years ahead.

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Four Years of Progress Highlight Statewide Academic Improvement

The Louisiana Department of Education released its 2024–2025 School and District Performance Scores, marking the fourth consecutive year of statewide academic improvement. Students across the state reached their highest overall rating since the creation of the current 150-point accountability model. The announcement reflected a statewide commitment to instructional quality, with educators and families contributing to sustained academic progress. As summarized from the remarks of State Superintendent Dr. Cade Brumley, the multiyear gains demonstrated the potential unlocked when schools remain focused on strong instruction and targeted academic outcomes.

Louisiana’s overall statewide score for 2025 reached 80.9, representing an academic improvement and increase of more than five points since 2021 and nearly one point above last year’s rating. All index areas either improved or held steady, indicating widespread progress. Individual School and District Performance Scores were posted publicly through the LDOE data portal, allowing families and educators to examine local results. The Department also released a statewide list recognizing top-performing school systems and campuses for both growth and achievement. Together, these results demonstrated progress across Louisiana’s K-12 education system and across school types, including elementary, middle, and high schools.

This year’s letter-grade distribution also reflected meaningful momentum and academic improvement. Statewide, 21% of schools earned an A, 31% earned a B, and 32% received a C. Only 12% of schools were rated D campuses, and 4% received an F. Elementary and middle schools showed substantial improvement, with 44% earning an A or B. High schools demonstrated even stronger performance, with 70% earning one of the top two letter grades. These gains aligned with ongoing initiatives across Louisiana public schools to strengthen curriculum pathways, expand targeted interventions, and improve instructional supports for educators.

The release also marked the final year of performance scores calculated under the state’s outgoing accountability formula. The existing model has often been viewed as outdated, overly complex, and misaligned with the expectations needed for true career and college readiness. Next year, the state will introduce its redesigned system—Grow. Achieve. Thrive.—which raises expectations, clarifies measures, and places more emphasis on whether students graduate prepared for a career, college, or military service. Schools and districts will receive ratings through a streamlined scorecard centered on three major expectations: Grow, meaning students make meaningful academic progress each year; Achieve, meaning students reach proficiency in core subjects; and Thrive, meaning students graduate on time and prepared for postsecondary pathways.

To support schools ahead of this shift, the LDOE also released simulated 2025 performance scores using the Grow. Achieve. Thrive. model. These simulations were not official results but served as a preview of how the new accountability structure may impact future ratings. Early feedback from districts indicated that the clearer design and increased alignment with readiness expectations would help schools guide long-term planning more effectively.

Alongside K–12 results, the Department published the 2025 Early Childhood Performance Profiles, which applied to publicly funded early learning centers across the state. This included child care centers, Early Head Start/Head Start programs, and school-based pre-K sites. Each location received a rating based on rigorous classroom observations focused on instructional quality, educator-child interactions, and overall learning environments. Community networks responsible for early childhood coordination also received separate performance profiles reflecting system-level quality across Louisiana.

The statewide early childhood rating rose to 5.54, marking a 0.05 increase from the previous year. More than 95% of early childhood sites were rated Proficient or higher, with 73% receiving High Proficient or Excellent status. Community networks showed similar success, with 95% earning top-tier ratings. Additionally, all observation domains increased statewide, reflecting continued improvement across instructional, emotional, and organizational practices. Notably, early language support for infants and toddlers—from birth to age two—met the benchmark for high-quality practice for the first time, as measured within the Engaged Support for Learning domain.

The release of the 2024–2025 performance data underscored steady, statewide growth and signaled the beginning of a new era in Louisiana’s accountability approach. With four consecutive years of rising scores and a redesigned model ahead, Louisiana schools are positioned to continue strengthening academic outcomes and supporting long-term student success.

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Louisiana Begins Review to Modernize Physical Education Standards

In an important step toward promoting student health and well-being, the Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE) has officially launched a comprehensive review of the state’s K–12 physical education standards, as per this news release. This initiative, recently approved by the Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE), is part of the state’s standard seven-year review cycle and aims to align physical education practices with the evolving needs of today’s students. The current set of standards was last updated in 2017, making this revision both timely and necessary.

The state’s renewed focus on physical education reflects a growing recognition that physical fitness is just as essential as reading and math when it comes to student development. According to Louisiana State Superintendent of Education Dr. Cade Brumley, fitness lays a foundation for success beyond the classroom. He emphasized that, like literacy and numeracy, physical activity contributes to long-term well-being and academic performance. By updating the standards now, Louisiana can help students adopt healthy habits, gain essential motor skills, and develop lifelong attitudes toward wellness.

To ensure a well-rounded and inclusive approach to this review, the LDOE is calling on educators, school administrators, parents, higher education faculty, and interested community members from across the state to participate in the review process. Applications for the standards committees are now being accepted, with a deadline of July 31. Those selected will play an instrumental role in shaping the next generation of physical education in Louisiana’s public schools.

The review process is structured to include a steering committee and two grade-band workgroups—one focused on grades K–5 and another dedicated to grades 6–12. These groups will be comprised of stakeholders representing diverse perspectives and professional backgrounds. Members will convene in person beginning in late October at the Claiborne Building in Baton Rouge, and all meetings will remain open to the public to promote transparency and collaboration.

The updated standards will be guided by several key priorities. First, the review will seek to enhance the progression of physical fitness skills across all grade levels, ensuring that students build their abilities in a logical and developmentally sound sequence from year to year. In addition, the revised standards will emphasize the importance of teaching age-appropriate motor skills and movement patterns that align with students’ physical and cognitive development. Another major focus will be on embedding instructional practices that promote high-quality teaching for learners of all abilities, supporting equity and inclusivity in every classroom. Lastly, the updated standards will incorporate health-centered outcomes that go beyond traditional fitness goals to encourage lifelong wellness, personal responsibility, and a deeper understanding of how physical activity contributes to overall health.

Once committee selections are finalized this fall, they will be submitted to BESE for formal approval. The revised physical education standards are scheduled to be presented to the board in 2026. Following approval, implementation training for educators and school systems will begin during the 2026–2027 academic year, with full statewide implementation anticipated for the 2027–2028 school year.

This modernization effort highlights Louisiana’s broader commitment to student health and academic readiness. As more data underscores the link between physical activity and improved cognitive function, behavior, and attendance, updated P.E. standards have the potential to produce far-reaching benefits. Schools are increasingly being seen not just as places of learning, but also as critical environments where lifelong habits are formed.

By prioritizing physical education alongside academic subjects, Louisiana is setting a standard for whole-child development. The upcoming revisions will not only guide what students learn during P.E. class but also shape how they think about movement, health, and personal responsibility for years to come.

Those interested in applying for a committee position or learning more about the review process can find application information on the LDOE website.

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LDOE Names Top Education Professionals for 2025

In a heartfelt celebration of dedication and excellence, the Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE) recently honored exceptional education professionals who serve as pillars of support for students, teachers, and families, as per this news release. These professionals, often working behind the scenes, help shape a strong foundation for student success. The recognitions were part of the annual LDOE awards program, which highlights outstanding school support employees, health service providers, and schools that prioritize physical wellness.

Donella Wagner, a custodian at Raintree Elementary in St. Mary Parish Schools, was named the 2025 Louisiana Outstanding School Support Employee of the Year. Her recognition speaks volumes about the important, yet often overlooked, work performed by custodial staff. Wagner’s role extends far beyond maintaining cleanliness—she provides daily care for the school environment, supports students and faculty alike, and brings a sense of pride and responsibility to the school community.

Wagner was chosen from a competitive field of finalists representing school systems across Louisiana. The award itself recognizes a broad spectrum of support staff, including bus drivers, paraprofessionals, food service workers, clerical staff, and aides. All nominees have demonstrated a commitment to going above and beyond their job descriptions in service of Louisiana’s schools.

Another honoree, Sue Lyn Simpson, was named the 2025 Louisiana School Health Service Provider of the Year. Simpson, a physical therapist with Ascension Public Schools, was recognized for her outstanding contributions to student health, mobility, and overall well-being. Her work plays a critical role in ensuring that students are physically equipped to access and participate fully in their educational experiences.

Finalists in this category came from a wide range of healthcare professions that intersect with school settings, including occupational and physical therapists, nurses, behavioral health providers, and speech-language pathologists. Simpson’s recognition underscores the growing understanding that academic achievement is deeply connected to physical and emotional health.

In addition to individual accolades, the LDOE also presented the Louisiana School Physical Activity Award, which celebrates schools with exemplary physical activity programs. Six schools were recognized as finalists for successfully embedding movement and wellness into the school culture. These schools represent both elementary and secondary levels, and each has demonstrated an ongoing commitment to fostering healthy lifestyles for their students and communities.

To qualify for this award, schools must go beyond standard physical education classes. They are expected to incorporate physical activity throughout the school day—before, during, and after school—while also engaging families, staff, and the broader community in wellness activities. This holistic approach encourages lifelong habits of movement and health among students and educators alike.

All of the honorees were formally recognized during a Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education(BESE) meeting held on June 3. Later that day, they were celebrated at a reception at the Old State Capitol—a setting that symbolized the gravity and dignity of their service.

This annual recognition program serves as a reminder that education is a collective effort. From custodians and therapists to school leaders and physical educators, each professional honored plays a distinct and essential role in supporting the whole child. Their work enhances not only academic achievement but also emotional resilience, physical health, and school climate.

By elevating the contributions of these professionals, the LDOE continues to emphasize that student success is not possible without the tireless efforts of those who provide support in classrooms, hallways, clinics, cafeterias, buses, playgrounds, and beyond. These award recipients represent the heart of Louisiana’s educational system—where commitment, compassion, and care drive meaningful, lasting, and everyday impact across all school communities and learning environments.

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Louisiana Schools Among 2024 National Blue Ribbon Honorees

The U.S. Department of Education has recently recognized seven schools across Louisiana as 2024 National Blue Ribbon Schools, according to this news release from the Louisiana Department Of Education. This prestigious award is granted to schools that demonstrate academic excellence or make significant progress in closing achievement gaps among various student groups. The schools recognized in Louisiana this year are from six parishes: Calcasieu, East Baton Rouge, Iberia, Ouachita, Rapides, and St. Tammany.

Louisiana State Superintendent of Education Dr. Cade Brumley expressed his admiration for the schools’ achievements, noting that being named a National Blue Ribbon School is a remarkable accomplishment that signifies a steadfast commitment to academic success. He emphasized the role that students, educators, and families play in setting and maintaining these high standards of excellence.

The seven schools honored with the 2024 National Blue Ribbon title are spread across the state and represent a diverse mix of public and non-public institutions. These schools are:

Being awarded the National Blue Ribbon is more than just a badge of honor—it’s a symbol of outstanding teaching and learning practices. The flag, which is often displayed in the school’s entryway or on its flagpole, is recognized across the country as an emblem of exceptional education. This recognition not only honors the achievements of the specific schools but also allows them to serve as role models for others nationwide.

The National Blue Ribbon Schools Program, established in 1982, is one of the longest-running recognition programs of the U.S. Department of Education. Over the decades, it has celebrated outstanding schools across the nation, both public and non-public, at the elementary, middle, and high school levels. The primary goal of the program is to identify schools that stand out due to their academic performance or their success in closing the achievement gap among students from different backgrounds.

The program has not only highlighted the best schools in the country but has also served as a platform for sharing best practices. These Lbest practices help educators and administrators nationwide learn from each other, creating a ripple effect that extends the benefits of the Blue Ribbon recognition far beyond the honored schools.

Each year, the U.S. Department of Education collaborates with state education departments to identify outstanding schools that are worthy of the Blue Ribbon title. Nominations are based on student academic achievement metrics and progress toward closing achievement gaps. After being nominated, schools go through a rigorous review process conducted by the U.S. Department of Education, where several hundred schools nationwide are ultimately awarded this esteemed recognition.

The recognition of these seven Louisiana schools as 2024 National Blue Ribbon Schools is a testament to the quality of education in the state and the commitment of educators, students, and families to achieving excellence. These schools, located across different parishes, have set the bar high, serving as examples of what is possible when communities come together to prioritize education.

By celebrating their successes, the U.S. Department of Education highlights not only the importance of academic performance but also the value of closing achievement gaps and ensuring that all students have access to high-quality education. These schools are models for others to follow, showcasing the impact that dedication and collaboration can have on student outcomes.

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Simplifying Success: Louisiana’s New K-12 Accountability Framework

In a significant move to elevate educational standards, the Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE) has unveiled a comprehensive plan titled Grow.Achieve.Thrive, as per this news release from LDOE. This plan, approved by the Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE), is set to transform the state’s K-12 accountability system starting from the 2025-26 academic year. The goal is to not only enhance academic success but also to place greater emphasis on career education, making it simpler for the public to assess school performance.

The Grow.Achieve.Thrive. initiative rests on three pivotal drivers: simplicity and transparency, high expectations, and a focus on career and college readiness. A hallmark of the new system is its simplicity and transparency, achieved through the implementation of a 100-point grading scale. This scale is designed to provide a clear and straightforward method for evaluating school performance, ensuring that stakeholders can easily interpret the results.

The plan sets higher academic expectations by raising the bar for student outcomes. The objective is to drive performance to unprecedented levels, pushing students to achieve greater academic success across all core subjects. Emphasizing career education and college preparation, the plan ensures that students are ready for the next steps after high school, whether that involves higher education, entering the workforce, or military service.

Dr. Cade Brumley, the Louisiana State Superintendent of Education, highlighted the dedication and effort behind the accountability plan. He emphasized that the revised system is the result of three years of concerted efforts aimed at elevating educational expectations. According to Brumley, this new system will not only drive performance to new heights but also offer the public a clearer understanding of school quality.

BESE President Ronnie Morris echoed this sentiment, noting that K-12 education in Louisiana is moving in a positive direction. He stated that the new, simplified standard for measuring school performance will bolster this momentum. By focusing on core skill development, academic growth, and work-based learning opportunities, the new accountability measures will strengthen Louisiana’s educational foundation and unlock meaningful opportunities for more students.

The name Grow.Achieve.Thrive. is derived from the three core student expectations: growth, achievement, and thriving beyond high school.

Grow: The ‘Grow’ component focuses on measuring the number of students who show academic growth in math and English each year. Special attention is given to the lowest-achieving students and those learning English, ensuring they receive the necessary support to progress.

Achieve: Under ‘Achieve,’ schools are evaluated based on the number of students who achieve proficiency in math, English, science, and social studies. This component underscores the importance of a well-rounded education in core academic subjects.

Thrive: The ‘Thrive’ aspect measures high schools by the number of students graduating on time, demonstrating readiness on nationally recognized exams, and preparing for future endeavors by earning college credits or high-value career credentials coupled with work experience.

The Grow.Achieve.Thrive. plan will be fully implemented in the 2025-26 school year. However, to prepare schools and systems for this transition, simulated scores will be provided for the 2023-24 and 2024-25 academic years. This approach allows schools to adapt to the new system and make necessary adjustments ahead of its official launch.

Louisiana’s Accountability Scorecard will play a crucial role in this new system, incorporating foundational elements essential to student success. These elements will be averaged to produce a comprehensive score for each school and system, reflecting their performance across multiple dimensions.

The Grow.Achieve.Thrive. plan marks a significant step forward for Louisiana’s educational system. By setting higher expectations and focusing on transparency, academic growth, and career readiness, the state is laying a strong foundation for future success. This initiative promises to provide students with the skills and opportunities they need to excel in their academic and professional lives.

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