For the first time in Louisiana’s history, our educational system ranks #32 in the nation — our highest placement ever. According to the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), our 4th-grade kids have never performed better: we now rank #16 in reading and #38 in math. Never have our 4th-grade math students performed better. Our 8th-graders have never performed better in reading and math, ranking 29th and 43rd, respectively. Our 4th-grade math students are in the top 5 in the nation in growth and lead the nation in reading growth for the second straight cycle. This is a fantastic accomplishment made possible by our dedicated educators, who engage daily and take pride in their work.
How did we get here?
The other part of the equation leading to such good numbers is the Department of Education. Under the leadership of Dr. Cade Brumley, we have made a concerted and conscious effort to “get back to the basics” in reading and math. Today’s science of reading or phonics-based learning is showing great results. In the same manner, the old-school method of math learning, i.e., flashcards and memorization, is the method being utilized by teachers and students. In fact, Dr. Brumley sent decks of flash cards to school systems throughout the state last year.
Where do we go from here?
As a member of BESE, I am incredibly proud of how we have worked with LDOE, the state legislature, and Gov. Jeff Landry to help bring about meaningful change. This teamwork will help propel us to continue the trajectory of these last 4 years.
Key initiatives driving our success include:
- Sweeping accountability reforms to reinforce “back to basics” learning.
- “Let Teachers Teach” initiatives that empower educators to do what they do best—teach.
- Legislative action to improve classroom learning environments, including:
- Banning cell phones during school hours.
- Streamlining the removal of disruptive students.
- Investing $30 million in high-dose tutoring for struggling students in math and reading.
For the first time in a long time, everyone is pulling in the same direction—BESE, LDOE, the state legislature, and the governor’s office. And we’re not stopping here.
Like Dr. Brumley said at our recent press conference: “We’ll celebrate for 10 minutes, and then it’s back to work.”
The Road Ahead
Louisiana is no longer the cellar dweller of the past. If we continue to make bold decisions, prioritize student success, and work together, we can make Louisiana’s education system the best in the nation.
God bless our great state,
Kevin M. Berken
BESE 7
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