05/13/2026
Dear Ascension Families,
Today’s release of the national Education Scorecard by researchers from Harvard University, Stanford University, and Dartmouth College brings exciting news for Louisiana and powerful validation for Ascension Public Schools.
The 2026 report ranks Louisiana as first among states in the nation for reading growth and second in math. Even more notably, Louisiana is the only state where average student performance has surpassed 2019 levels in both reading and math.
Here at home, this data confirms what we have long known about Ascension Public Schools.
For the past three years, our district has ranked number one in Louisiana for the percentage of students scoring at the Advanced and Mastery levels on state assessments. At times, questions have been raised about how those results compare nationally. Today’s report provides a clear answer. Ascension Public Schools is not only leading at the state level but also outperforming the national average in math and reading for Grades 3 through 8.
Since 2012, our students have consistently outperformed the national average in Grades 3 through 8 in both math and reading. That is a reflection of something special happening across our schools. It is the result of high expectations, strong instruction, and a relentless commitment to helping every child succeed.
We are incredibly proud of our students for rising to the challenge and delivering at such a high level. We are equally proud of our teachers, staff, and leaders who pour their energy and expertise into making this success possible every single day.
To our families and community: Thank you! Your support, your trust, and your continued investment in our public schools make a lasting difference. Ascension is strong because of you, and together we are creating opportunities that prepare our students for success far beyond the classroom.
This is a moment to celebrate, but it is also motivation to keep pushing forward for all students. The best is yet to come for Ascension Public Schools.
Respectfully,
Dr. Edith M. Walker
Superintendent
Ascension Public Schools
