Louisiana Department of Education matches state funding for Steve Carter Tutoring Program

The Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE) will match the state’s $5 million investment in the Steve Carter Tutoring Program for the 2025–2026 school year, bringing the total funding for the program to $10 million.

The LDOE is using $5 million in federal funds to support students who need academic assistance outside regular school hours. This decision follows recent guidance from the U.S. Department of Education that allows states more flexibility in directing federal funds toward local priorities. The Louisiana Legislature previously allocated $5 million to the program during its 2025 Regular Session.

Now entering its third year, the Steve Carter Tutoring Program has seen growing demand and maintained a waitlist for services. The combined funding from both state and federal sources aims to provide continued support for currently enrolled students and expand access for families on the waitlist.

“This is an example of what can happen when states are empowered to invest federal dollars based on their local priorities,” said Louisiana State Superintendent of Education Dr. Cade Brumley. “Thanks to Secretary McMahon’s commitment to local decision-making, we’re able to support high-quality tutoring that positively impacts Louisiana students.”

The Steve Carter Tutoring Program provides digital vouchers to eligible K–12 public school families, which can be used for approved literacy or math tutoring services either virtually or in person. All providers must be vetted by the LDOE.

Louisiana was among the first states to implement statewide high-dosage tutoring as a response to learning gaps caused by the pandemic. According to The Nation’s Report Card, these efforts have contributed to notable academic progress, with Louisiana moving from 49th place in 2019 to 32nd nationally.

The Steve Carter Tutoring Program operates as part of a broader initiative that includes Accelerate: High-Dosage Tutoring, which serves K–5 students during school hours, while Steve Carter supports after-school learning needs.