The Louisiana State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) is the administrative body for all Louisiana public elementary and secondary schools; it also performs certain administrative functions for the state's non-public elementary and secondary schools. BESE adopts regulations and enacts policies governing the operations of the schools under its jurisdiction, and exercises budgetary oversight of their educational programs and services.

BESE believes that every child is valued, every child will learn, and that the future of the state and its quality of life depend on an educated citizenry. BESE is committed to making informed policy decisions that will result in improved academic achievement and educational opportunities for all students.

 

      Featured resources:

       
      BESE Mission Statement
       
       
       

      Upcoming Meetings  
      BESE Retreat (Burden Museum Welcome Center - 4560 Essen Lane, Baton Rouge, LA 70809) 
      October 13, 2026 | 10:00 A.M. 
      Agenda | Materials | Livestream

      BESE Committee and Board Meetings (Claiborne Building - Purchase Room 1-100) 
      October 14, 2026 
      • Academic Goals and Instructional Improvement Committee (9:00 A.M.) 
        Agenda | Materials | Livestream
      • Board Administration and Education Finance Committee (10:00 A.M.) 
        Agenda | Materials | Livestream
      • Educator Effectiveness Committee (11:00 A.M.) 
        Agenda | Materials | Livestream
      • School Innovation and Turnaround Committee (12:00 P.M.) 
        Agenda | Materials | Livestream
      • Board Meeting (2:30 P.M.) 
        Agenda | Materials | Livestream

      		    
           

      BESE Policies and Bulletins
       
      BESE Members and Districts
       
      BoardDocs Meeting Materials
      Diligent Community Meeting Materials