Mar 13, 2026, 12:01 PM
by
Regine Williams
BATON ROUGE, LA — The Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) held its regularly scheduled committee meetings on Tuesday, March 10, followed by its full Board meeting on Wednesday, March 11. During the meetings, members received key updates from the Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE), considered policy matters impacting schools statewide, and recognized students and school systems for exemplary achievement.
The March meetings included sessions of the Academic Goals and Instructional Improvement, Board Administration and Education Finance, Legislative and Governmental Affairs, Educator Effectiveness, and School Innovation and Turnaround committees. The Board discussed several major initiatives focused on strengthening academic outcomes, supporting workforce readiness, and recognizing student success across Louisiana.
Key actions and highlights from the March meetings included:
- Update from BESE Artificial Intelligence Work Group
Dr. Jim Henderson, Chair of the BESE Artificial Intelligence Work Group, provided an update on the group’s progress and work to explore responsible integration of artificial intelligence in Louisiana’s education system. The Work Group was started by BESE Member, Mr. Ronnie Morris, and has focused on identifying opportunities for innovation, supporting educators, and preparing students for an evolving workforce shaped by emerging technologies.
- 2025 Content Standards Review for English Language Arts and Mathematics
LDOE presented an update on the 2025 content standards review process for English Language Arts (ELA) and Mathematics. The review process included educator participation and public input on recommended revisions. The proposed changes would repeal and reestablish Bulletin 142—Louisiana Mathematics Student Standards and amend Bulletin 141—Louisiana English Language Arts Student Standards. The recommendations were endorsed by the ELA and Mathematics Content Standards Steering Committee.
- Update on High School Opportunities and Education Key Performance Indicators
Board members received an update regarding high school opportunities and education key performance indicators (KPIs). The presentation highlighted efforts to expand access to high-quality academic pathways, workforce training opportunities, and programs that support student success beyond graduation.
- Consideration of the Minimum Foundation Program (MFP) Formula for 2026–2027
BESE considered proposed updates to the MFP, the state’s formula for allocating education funding to city and parish school districts, charter schools, and state schools. Approved changes included:
· An increase in the Mandated Cost Allocation in Level 3
· Inclusion of Ecole Pointe au Chien in the formula (technical change)
· A resident teacher funding location change (technical change)
- Report on Industry-Based Certifications and Workforce Outcomes
The Board received an update on the preliminary review of the report titled Industry-Based Certifications, Higher Education, and Earnings in the Workforce. The return-on-investment analysis examines the impact of industry-based credentials earned by Louisiana high school students. The report was conducted by the Blanco Center at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette in partnership with Louisiana Works and is required under Act 187 of the 2025 Regular Legislative Session.
- Board Resolution Supporting Continued Funding for Key Education Priorities
BESE adopted a resolution urging the Louisiana Legislature to continue funding several key education initiatives, including the Giving All True Opportunity to Rise (GATOR) program, high-dosage tutoring, teacher differential pay, and targeted investments that expand internships and apprenticeship opportunities for students. The resolution emphasizes the importance of sustained investments that support student achievement, strengthen the educator workforce, and expand educational opportunities for Louisiana families.
- Recognition of Community Service Endorsement Recipients
BESE recognized schools and districts whose students earned the Community Service Endorsement, which highlights students’ dedication to volunteerism and civic engagement. Representatives recognized during the meeting included:
· Jefferson Parish Schools (361 endorsements)
· Edna Karr High School (247 endorsements)
· The Willow School (197 endorsements)
- Models of Excellence Award Recognition
Plaquemines Parish Schools received the Models of Excellence 2025–2026 Award for its Freedom Framework-Bayou Bridges initiative. The program was recognized for its innovative approach to supporting student learning and strengthening educational opportunities for students across the parish.
“Louisiana continues to make important progress in expanding opportunities for students, supporting educators, and ensuring our policies reflect the evolving needs of our schools and communities,” said BESE President Ms. Simone Champagne. “During our March meetings, the Board reviewed important academic initiatives, including the continued integration of artificial intelligence in education and the review of our state’s academic standards.
The Board also adopted a resolution urging the Legislature to continue investing in proven strategies that support student success, including high-dosage tutoring ($30 million), teacher differential pay ($17.5 million), expanded internships and apprenticeships ($2 million), and the GATOR program. These investments are critical to strengthening our educator workforce, expanding educational opportunity, and ensuring Louisiana students are prepared for success in school, in the workforce, and in life.”
Recordings of the Board and committee meetings are available on the Louisiana BESE YouTube channel.
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About BESE
The Louisiana State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) is the administrative body for Louisiana’s schools. BESE adopts regulations and enacts policies governing the state’s elementary and secondary schools in partnership with the Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE).