Dr. Jenna Chiasson, Deputy Superintendent, Office of Teaching & Learning | Louisiana Department of Education
The Louisiana Department of Education has announced the introduction of the Freedom Framework Diploma Endorsement, aimed at recognizing high school students excelling in civics education. The Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education approved this new diploma endorsement, which will be available starting from the 2025–2026 academic year. Students who achieve a score of Mastery or above on the LEAP 2025 civics assessment will receive a special diploma seal and an honor cord in red, white, and blue to wear during graduation ceremonies.
Dr. Cade Brumley, the Louisiana State Superintendent of Education, emphasized the importance of civics education in fostering academic success and promoting informed civic involvement. "Graduating with a strong understanding of government and our nation’s history sets students up for academic success and informed civic engagement," he stated. "This new diploma endorsement highlights Louisiana’s commitment to strengthening civics education."
Diploma endorsements in Louisiana serve as recognition for students' achievement in specific areas, allowing them to highlight their dedication, interests, and readiness for the future on their diplomas. The Freedom Framework Diploma Endorsement aligns with Louisiana’s K-12 student standards for social studies, known as the Freedom Framework. These standards, developed under the leadership of Dr. Brumley, were adopted in 2022 and focus on telling the story of American exceptionalism and the nation's ongoing journey toward becoming a more perfect union.
Louisiana began implementing these rigorous new standards in the 2023-2024 school year. The updated standards aim to provide students with historical content presented in a precise, coherent, and chronological manner, while also ensuring the development of essential skills.
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