LA DOE News Releases

104 Louisiana Students Named Presidential Scholars Candidates

The Louisiana Department of Education announced that 104 Louisiana high school students have been named candidates for the 2026 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program. Each year, up to 161 students nationwide are named U.S. Presidential Scholars, one of the nation's highest honors for high school students. The program was established in 1964 and recognizes excellence in education and exceptional talent in visual, creative, performing arts, and career and technical education fields.

Kim Mulkey to Keynote Teacher Leader Summit 2026

The Louisiana Department of Education announced that LSU women's basketball head coach Kim Mulkey will keynote the Teacher Leader Summit 2026 opening session on May 26 at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center in New Orleans. The summit, scheduled for May 26-28, is Louisiana's premier professional learning event for educators serving students from birth through grade 12. Regular registration is open through April 12 at a rate of $299.

Louisiana Teacher, Principal Awards Announce Semifinalists, Finalists

The Louisiana Department of Education announced semifinalists for Teacher and Principal of the Year and finalists for Early Childhood Teacher and Leader of the Year and New Teacher of the Year. The announcement names educators from parishes across Louisiana, with overall honorees to be announced in July at the 20th Annual Cecil J. Picard Educator Excellence Gala.

Louisiana Approves Revised K-12 English Language Arts Standards Emphasizing Science of Reading

The Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) has approved revised K-12 English language arts (ELA) student standards recommended by State Superintendent Dr. Cade Brumley. The updated standards strengthen emphasis on the science of reading (phonics and foundational skills), reinforce grammar progression, and include cursive writing instruction. The revised standards will take effect in the 2027–2028 school year following a review process that began in 2024 involving educators, stakeholders, public meetings, and a public comment period.

Louisiana Recognizes 2026 State Honorees for Excellence in School and Student Support

The Louisiana Department of Education announced the 2026 state honorees for the Outstanding School Support Employee of the Year, School Health Service Provider of the Year, and School Physical Activity Award programs. Richard Aaron Spring (Creekside Junior High, St. Tammany Parish) was named Outstanding School Support Employee of the Year. Lacie Thomas Fontenot (Livingston Parish Public Schools) was named School Health Service Provider of the Year. Three schools were recognized as finalists for the School Physical Activity Award.