Report Shows Louisiana’s K-12 Education Still Poor But Getting Better

While the overall outlook into Louisiana's educational system for grades K-12 is still somewhat grim, the overall picture is looking better.

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According to the latest findings in the US News and World Report Best States rankings, Louisiana still has a long way to go but the state is moving in the right direction as it garners its highest ranking ever.

Exactly What Was Louisiana's K-12 Education Ranked?

The Louisiana Radio Network points out that though Louisiana's Pre-k through 12th grade education was ranked at number 40 in the U.S. in 2024, that's actually up from 41st last year and much improved from the 46th ranking five years ago in 2019.

Of that improvement, Louisiana State Superintendent of Education, Dr. Cade Brumley said, “I think that if we could just hold true to those fundamental elements of education and not chase things that aren’t relative to that, I think we will continue to see our rankings improved.”

Continuing, Brumley said, “40th isn’t where we need to be and three’s more work to be done.” He's hoping that the 2025 report will show Louisiana's ranking to move up into the 30's.

What Factors Led To Louisiana's Overall Ranking?

While Louisiana's overall K-12 evaluation saw its low points, including a ranking of 43 for "College Readiness" and a ranking of 38 in "High School Graduation", there could very well be a turn of the tide for the next generation as Louisiana posted a 7th place ranking in regards to "Preschool Enrollment."

According to Dr. Brumley, several variables have led to an educational improvement in Louisiana including a fundamental shift in how students are taught to read, a focus on foundational math skills and an emphasis on career and college readiness.