It’s Working, Louisiana: Students Demonstrate Steady Growth in Academic Performance

Houston — Recent Louisiana student performance data points to academic growth and affirms that the state’s efforts to transform its educational system are working. The percentage of Louisiana students scoring at the Basic level or above on state tests is up, and the increase is particularly striking in New Orleans.

“We have looked closely at what the people of Louisiana, and New Orleans, in particular, are doing, and it’s clear to us that it’s working,” said Caprice Young, vice president of education for the Laura and John Arnold Foundation (LJAF). ​“We believe everyone ought to know about these exciting gains, and those who are contributing to this progress deserve to be recognized for the results.”

In order to share the academic gains with the broadest possible audience, LJAF has launched a statewide informational campaign that highlights Louisiana as a national model for transforming public education. A series of online, print, and radio messages will be shared in cities across the state including Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Lake Charles, Shreveport, and New Orleans.

“Educators in New Orleans are driving the largest gains by taking the most transformative action,” Young said. ​“We are proud to showcase their excellent progress and look forward to continued improvement.”