BATON ROUGE, LA — Louisiana students are achieving historic academic gains as the state ranks first in the nation for reading growth and second in math growth, marking one of the strongest academic recovery performances in the country, according to the latest Education Scorecard released by researchers from Harvard University, Stanford University, and Dartmouth College. Louisiana is also the only state in the nation where student achievement has surpassed pre-pandemic levels in both reading and math.
These results reflect years of focused policy leadership, high academic standards, accountability measures, and strategic investments championed by the Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE). Through deliberate reforms centered on literacy, educator support, accountability, and student achievement, BESE has remained committed to ensuring every child in Louisiana has access to a high-quality education.
The latest Education Scorecard data shows Louisiana continues to lead the nation in academic progress and student achievement growth. After previously ranking first among states in reading growth and second in math growth from 2019 to 2024, Louisiana once again earned the top national ranking for growth from 2022 to 2025.
According to the latest scorecard results:
- Louisiana ranks first among states in reading growth and second among states in math growth.
- Louisiana is the only state in the nation to surpass 2019 pre-pandemic achievement levels in both reading and math.
- Louisiana is also the only state to exceed 2019 levels in reading and one of only two states nationally to do so in math.
- While the state continues to make historic academic gains, leaders acknowledged that challenges remain, including chronic absenteeism. Statewide chronic absenteeism increased from 18.8 percent in 2022 to 22 percent in 2025.
“This achievement represents the hard work and determination of Louisiana educators, students, families, and policymakers who refused to lower expectations for our children,” BESE President Ms. Simone Champagne. “BESE has remained steadfast in advancing policies grounded in accountability, academic excellence, and proven instructional practices. Today’s national recognition confirms that Louisiana’s commitment to high standards and student-focused reforms is producing real and measurable results for our children.”
Champagne also expressed appreciation for the leadership and implementation efforts of Louisiana State Superintendent of Education Dr. Cade Brumley and the Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE).
“We are grateful for the tireless work of Superintendent Brumley, the LDOE, local school systems, educators, and support staff across our state who worked every day to faithfully implement the policies and vision established to improve student outcomes,” Champagne said. “These gains reflect what can happen when strong policy, committed leadership, and dedicated educators work together on behalf of children.”
Over the past several years, BESE has advanced policies designed to strengthen foundational literacy and numeracy skills, improve teacher preparation and professional development, expand educational opportunities, and maintain rigorous accountability standards across Louisiana’s school systems.
“These outcomes did not happen overnight,” Champagne added. “They are the result of sustained leadership, collaboration, and a shared belief that Louisiana students can compete with any students in America when given the right support and opportunities.”
BESE leaders emphasized that the state’s continued progress reflects years of focused policy decisions, strong accountability systems, educator support, and collaboration among school systems, teachers, families, and state education leaders committed to improving outcomes for Louisiana students.
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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).