Louisiana Students Show Major Academic Gains as EBR Schools Push Forward

Louisiana schools are seeing major improvement in reading and math scores, and East Baton Rouge Parish leaders say the momentum is continuing. EBR School Board member Patrick Martin joined Patrick Martin to discuss new national data showing Louisiana is now the only state to surpass pre-COVID academic levels in both subjects. He also highlighted the state’s jump from near the bottom of national rankings to around the middle, with fourth grade reading now ranking 16th nationally. Martin credited the progress to stronger classroom focus, more reading and math instruction, and expanded early childhood education efforts. He also discussed teacher training programs and upcoming school initiatives in Baton Rouge. The conversation shifted to the failed St. George school district amendment and what could happen next. Martin said the debate has created division for years but stressed his focus remains on improving education for every child in East Baton Rouge Parish. He also pointed to continued growth inside EBR schools, including strong gains in reading and math achievement scores.