Plaquemines Parish Schools’ implementation of Freedom Framework social studies standards recognized as a model for school systems across the state
BELLE CHASSE, La. — The Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE) awarded its Models of Excellence to Plaquemines Parish Schools for its implementation of Louisiana’s Freedom Framework social studies standards and Bayou Bridges curriculum. State Superintendent Dr. Cade Brumley presented the honor to Plaquemines Parish Schools Superintendent Dr. Shelley M. Ritz during a ceremony at Belle Chasse Middle.
Plaquemines Parish Schools has served as a model school system for putting Louisiana’s Freedom Framework into action through strong curriculum alignment, clear instructional expectations, and sustained professional learning.
“Louisiana’s Freedom Framework social studies standards are among the strongest in the country, and Plaquemines Parish Schools is demonstrating how thoughtful implementation can deepen students’ understanding of civics, history, and their responsibilities as citizens,” said Dr. Brumley.
Some of the highlights of Plaquemines Parish Schools’ success with the Freedom Framework include:
- Achieving strong student outcomes, including the highest civics proficiency rate in the state
- Emphasizing a literacy-based approach to social studies, recognizing that strong reading and writing skills are essential in history classrooms
- Expanding access to primary source documents so students regularly read and analyze original historical texts
- Providing ongoing training for teachers, instructional coaches, and school leaders
- Partnering with trusted professional learning providers to strengthen classroom instruction
“Implementing the Freedom Framework has given our students a richer, more connected understanding of the American story and their place within it,” said Dr. Ritz. “This recognition affirms the commitment of our teachers and leaders to fostering a culture of success through an unwavering pursuit of excellence and boundless opportunities. Our work is rooted in preserving what matters most, while pursuing what’s possible—for every student, every day.”
About Louisiana Models of Excellence
Louisiana Models of Excellence (MOE) was created to acknowledge schools serving as exemplary models for implementing Louisiana’s education priorities and key initiatives. This program celebrates excellence in Louisiana schools, shares stories of success and provides models for others to see, and creates high-impact partnerships among school systems across the state. Plaquemines Parish Schools is being awarded the MOE based on Louisiana’s focus on elevating civics education.
Plaquemines Parish Schools is the ninth recipient of this statewide honor. Past winners include Phillis Wheatley Community (Firstline Schools), East Feliciana Public Schools, Rapides Parish Schools, Mansfield Elementary (DeSoto Parish Schools), Lafourche Parish Schools, Calcasieu Parish School Board, Central Community School System, and West Feliciana Parish Schools.
School systems may submit nominations for the Louisiana Models of Excellence through an online portal. To learn more about submitting nominations, please visit the LDOE website.
Elevating Civics Education
Louisiana has become a national leader in civics education. In addition to adopting the Freedom Framework, the state has implemented a mandatory high school civics assessment, established a civics diploma endorsement, and launched a statewide observance that promotes constitutional literacy. In 2026, all Louisiana graduates will receive a special America 250 diploma seal in honor of the nation’s semiquincentennial.
Freedom Framework
In 2022, Louisiana became one of the first states to adopt a new set of social studies standards that tell the story of American exceptionalism as well as the nation’s continuous journey towards becoming a more perfect union. Known as the Freedom Framework, Louisiana has since advised other states in developing similarly rigorous civics-focused standards.
Civics Diploma Endorsement
The 2025–2026 school year marks the first time students are eligible to earn the Freedom Framework Diploma Endorsement, a new recognition for high school students who demonstrate excellence in civics education. The endorsement is awarded to students who score Mastery or above on the LEAP 2025 civics assessment. Recipients will receive an additional seal on their diploma and wear a red, white, and blue honor cord during graduation ceremonies.
Celebrate Freedom Week
Held annually to coincide with Constitution Day and Constitution Week, Celebrate Freedom Week is a statewide observance that promotes civic understanding and constitutional literacy among Louisiana students. Louisiana has partnered with the Reagan Foundation and The National WWII Museum on statewide events.
America 250 Diploma Seal
As the nation celebrates its 250th anniversary, Louisiana will honor this historic milestone by placing a commemorative America 250 seal on the diplomas of all graduating seniors in the Class of 2026. This special recognition is part of the state’s broader effort to promote civic understanding and celebrate the responsibilities of citizenship.
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