Louisiana Schools Make Significant Gains in U.S. News & World Report 2023 Rankings

Positive Progress in Pre-K-12 Education

Louisiana schools have demonstrated noteworthy advancement in the most recent state rankings released by U.S. News & World Report. The 2023 Best States rankings, which comprehensively assess all 50 states, incorporate education as a vital component. Notably, Louisiana has elevated its position by five places for Pre-K-12 education, climbing to the 41st spot in 2023.

“This notable improvement underscores the dedicated efforts of educators and policymakers in enhancing the quality of education across Louisiana,” stated Dr. Cade Brumley, State Superintendent of Education. While celebrating this positive shift in a state that has historically faced educational challenges, Dr. Brumley emphasized that there’s more work to be done, and progress must continue.

Outstanding Results Echoed by NAEP

This improvement aligns with encouraging data released earlier in the academic year by the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), often referred to as “The Nation’s Report Card.” In this assessment, Louisiana’s 4th graders achieved the top rank nationwide in terms of reading growth.

According to the U.S. News & World Report, Louisiana has displayed substantial improvement in its overall Pre-K-12 ranking between 2019 and 2023, ascending five places from 46th to 41st. Specifically, Louisiana has achieved the following advancements within various categories:

(Source: U.S. News & World Report)

• College readiness has risen from 42nd to 40th, a two-spot improvement.
• High school graduation rates have surged from 45th to 37th, an eight-spot leap.
• Math scores have progressed from 50th to 44th, a six-spot gain.
• Reading scores have advanced from 48th to 38th, a remarkable 10-spot improvement.
• Preschool enrollment has surged from 15th to 9th, a six-spot rise.

Consistent Progress in Louisiana Education

This data showcases the ongoing development of Louisiana students. Moreover, Louisiana’s 4th graders sustained their lead in reading growth, and the state’s overall ranking improved from 46th to 42nd among states between 2019 and 2022 on the NAEP.

Louisiana’s students have attained a significant year-over-year increase on state assessments, recording a three-point rise in both English Language Arts (ELA) and mathematics since 2016.

Remarkably, Louisiana’s overall School Performance Score has rebounded to its pre-pandemic level, signifying resilience and determination in the face of challenges.

Additionally, students in grades 1-3 in Louisiana have demonstrated consecutive growth on the Fall Reading Report for the second year in a row.

Acknowledging Dedication and Achievement

Dr. Jenna Chiasson, Deputy Superintendent, commended Louisiana’s teachers for their unwavering dedication to students’ academic excellence. She attributed these gains to their relentless pursuit of delivering quality education.

The Pre-K-12 ranking by U.S. News & World Report serves as a foundation for the Best States rankings. This comprehensive assessment evaluates state performance across various stages of a young person’s education journey, encompassing elements such as preschool enrollment, standardized test scores among eighth-graders, high school graduation rates, and college readiness.