Louisiana Department of Education Announces that State Ranks Top 10 Nationally in Report Card on Educational Freedom

Louisiana – The Louisiana Department of Education revealed on September 12, 2022, that Louisiana receives great grades for empowering parents in their children’s education and encouraging educational independence.

In a new report card on empowering parents in their children’s education and encouraging educational independence, Louisiana ranks first in the nation. Louisiana ranks ninth on the Heritage Foundation’s first-ever Education Freedom Report Card. Louisiana outperformed the majority of states in the four primary categories of the report: school choice, regulatory freedom, academic openness, and return on investment for education spending.

“I’m pleased that we’ve been recognized for our efforts to ensure educational freedom in Louisiana,” said State Superintendent Dr. Cade Brumley. “We should continue to pursue efforts that remove unnecessary bureaucracy, increase transparency, and empower families to choose the school that fits their needs.”

Louisiana received the best grades for regulatory independence, ranking third overall. The research highlights the state’s numerous pathways to becoming an educator, with 56 percent earning alternative certification.

In terms of educational choice and transparency, Louisiana ranks 19th. The survey gives Louisiana high grades for allowing parents to select between educational options and for respecting homeschool families’ autonomy. Families are also permitted by law to examine public school instructional materials. Louisiana rated 25th in terms of education spending return on investment.

The report also suggested avenues for continued development for Louisiana’s children and families. These include extending teacher certification processes, expanding access for families, and improving school choice alternatives for public and nonpublic schools.

The release of the Education Freedom Report Card coincides with the Louisiana Department of Education’s first Celebrate Freedom Week, which runs September 12-16. As a result of legislation passed this year, school districts throughout the state will have their own Celebrate Freedom Week this month, coinciding with Constitution Day.