Dr. Cade Brumley Louisiana State Superintendent of Education | https://www.nsula.edu
Fifty percent of Louisiana students in kindergarten through third grade are now reading at or above grade level, according to data released by the Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE). The results come from the state’s beginning-of-year literacy screener and reflect a three-point increase compared to fall 2024. This is the highest proficiency rate since these assessments began in the 2023-2024 school year.
“These gains are a result of Louisiana’s dedicated teachers,” said Louisiana State Superintendent of Education Dr. Cade Brumley. “We must stay the course and continue building strong foundations for all students.”
The data show that third graders posted the largest improvement, with a five-point gain over last year. Second grade proficiency increased by four points, first grade by two, and kindergarten by one point. In total, 56 percent of students in grades one through three met the benchmark for reading proficiency.
The universal literacy screener is administered to all public school students in grades K–3 three times each year. It is aligned with the science of reading and aims to help educators identify which students need additional support early on.
“Our goal is to help every student become a proficient reader,“ said Deputy Superintendent Dr. Jenna Chiasson. “This data serves as a roadmap to tailor support such as high-dosage tutoring to ensure students receive the instruction they need.”
Louisiana has implemented several strategies as part of its comprehensive literacy plan, including adopting phonics-based instruction methods, expanding high-dosage tutoring programs, and providing parents with resources to support their children’s reading development at home. Legislative actions such as Acts 520 and 517 established requirements for universal screening and research-based instructional materials.
The state’s efforts have resulted in significant national recognition. Louisiana improved its ranking for fourth-grade reading on The Nation’s Report Card from 50th place in 2019 to 16th place currently. The state also ranked first nationally on the Education Recovery Scorecard—a study conducted by Harvard and Stanford—and led national lists for early literacy policies that include universal screening and targeted student support.
The LDOE reports that these screeners provide real-time information about foundational reading skills, helping teachers address learning gaps promptly during critical early years.
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