Louisiana reports significant gains in K-3 student reading levels

The Louisiana Department of Education has reported a notable improvement in reading levels among K-3 students for the 2024-2025 school year. According to the end-of-year literacy screener results, there was a 17-point increase in the percentage of students reading at or above grade level from the start to the end of the academic year.

"Strong teachers, sound policy, and strategic investments have resulted in historic education outcomes for Louisiana," stated Dr. Cade Brumley, Louisiana State Superintendent of Education. "We’re proud of the progress, but far from satisfied. I’m pleased with the work of teachers in partnership with parents to prompt this growth."

The data shows that overall reading proficiency increased from 47% at the beginning of the year to 64% by year-end. Kindergarten saw a significant rise from 28% to 61%, while first grade improved from 50% to 69%. Second-grade students progressed from 54% to 65%, and third graders moved from 54% to 62%.

This marks the second consecutive year that all public school students in grades K-3 were required to complete literacy screeners, showing continuous improvements across each grade compared to last year's data.

Louisiana's success is attributed to its comprehensive literacy strategy which includes phonics-based instruction aligned with the Science of Reading, high-dosage tutoring initiatives since 2020, and tools developed for parent engagement.

Louisiana's efforts have also gained national recognition. The state ranked No.1 on the Education Recovery Scorecard for reading and topped a list for adopting comprehensive early literacy policies.

This school year introduced a third-grade promotion policy based on reading performance as outlined in Act 422 from the 2023 Legislative Session. Seventy-seven percent of third-grade students met promotion requirements on their initial attempt during end-of-year screenings.

Students scoring below required levels have additional opportunities through retests and summer learning programs before retention decisions are made. The LDOE has provided guidance materials for schools and families regarding these policies.

All K-3 public school students are required to take literacy screeners annually, which are designed to offer real-time insights into student progress throughout foundational years.