Overall honorees are Mary Mack Thornton from Caddo Parish, Rylann Renee Viator from Vermilion Parish, and Neal Pramod Tandon from Jefferson Parish

Louisiana has reached its highest-ever ranking in the U.S. News & World Report Best States rankings, climbing to 37th for Pre-K–12 education. This marks the state’s third straight year of academic gains, driven by statewide strategy and the commitment of educators and families.

The Louisiana Department of Education named its 24 finalists for the 2025 Louisiana Students of the Year competition. The honorees include one 5th, 8th, and 12th grader from each of the state’s eight BESE regions.

Overall honorees are Mary Mack Thornton from Caddo Parish, Rylann Renee Viator from Vermilion Parish, and Neal Pramod Tandon from Jefferson Parish

Louisiana has reached its highest-ever ranking in the U.S. News & World Report Best States rankings, climbing to 37th for Pre-K–12 education. This marks the state’s third straight year of academic gains, driven by statewide strategy and the commitment of educators and families.

The Louisiana Department of Education named its 24 finalists for the 2025 Louisiana Students of the Year competition. The honorees include one 5th, 8th, and 12th grader from each of the state’s eight BESE regions.