Louisiana District Grows Reading By Half A Grade Level

When researchers from three of America's top universities analyzed reading achievement across the nation, a small Louisiana district stood out among thousands.

Concordia Parish Schools has been recognized as one of only four Louisiana districts showing exceptional reading growth from 2019 to 2024. Students gained an average of 0.55 grade levels in reading, nearly double the statewide average of 0.28 grade levels.

The Education Recovery Scorecard, led by Harvard University, Stanford University, and Dartmouth College, compared districts with similar demographics and prior performance across all 50 states. Concordia Parish exceeded the average gains of comparable Louisiana districts, which averaged 0.37 grade levels.

Governor Jeff Landry and State Superintendent Cade Brumley celebrated the achievement Wednesday alongside district leadership. The recognition places Concordia Parish in an elite group that includes West Baton Rouge Parish, St. Martin Parish, and Natchitoches Parish.

The research project analyzed multiple data sources to measure academic progress. Researchers examined state test results, national assessment data, enrollment figures, poverty levels, COVID relief spending, and attendance patterns to paint a complete picture of each district's growth.

The Ripple Effect

This recognition sends a powerful message beyond Concordia Parish. When a small district demonstrates that significant academic gains are possible, it offers a roadmap for communities nationwide facing similar challenges.

Superintendent Toyua Bachus credited the success to teamwork across the entire community. "This recognition reflects the hard work of our students, teachers, support staff, administrators, School Board members, parents, and community partners," she said.

The achievement required sustained effort from everyone involved. Teachers refined their instruction, families supported learning at home, and students showed up ready to grow. District officials emphasized that keeping students first made the difference.

The scorecard designated successful districts as "Districts on the Rise" when they demonstrated significantly stronger growth than comparable peers. Concordia Parish earned its place among these standout communities through consistent, measurable progress over five years.

The results prove that focused effort and community collaboration can transform educational outcomes. What started as daily classroom work has become a nationally recognized success story, showing other districts what's possible when everyone works together toward a common goal.

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