Expanding Education Options for All Students

LOUISIANA SCHOOL CHOICE

School Choice Options for Louisiana Students

Expanding educational choice for student and families is one of Louisiana's Education Priorities. Parents are their child’s first and foremost teachers, and are in control of their child’s education. Families should have the freedom to choose the educational setting that best meets their needs. That’s why we are committed to school choice options, from high-quality traditional public schools to public charters, non-public schools, and home-study programs. No child should be limited by their zip code.

School Choice

LA GATOR Scholarship Program Charter Schools BESE-Approved Nonpublic Schools Nonpublic Schools Not Seeking State Approval BESE-Approved Home Study Program Louisiana Scholarship Program School Choice Program for Certain Students with Exceptionalities Tuition Donation Credit Program

School Choice in Louisiana

These are some of the options families in Louisiana have when choosing the best education environment for their child. Click on the links at the top of this page to learn more and access resources for families, educators, and system leaders.

Traditional Public Schools

Public schools serve local communities and are open to all students. They follow state-approved curriculum standards and are funded by taxpayer dollars to ensure a well-rounded, accessible education.

Charter Schools

Charter schools offer innovative approaches to education and greater flexibility in curriculum and teaching methods. They’re publicly funded and open to all students, with accountability to state standards and school performance.

Nonpublic Schools

Approved nonpublic schools offer families a private school option that meets specific state requirements. They may provide unique curricula, faith-based programs, or specialized instruction to fit family preferences.

Nonpublic Schools Not Seeking State Approval

These private schools operate independently without state oversight. They offer more freedom in curriculum design, though they aren’t required to meet state standards or performance reporting.

Home Study

The home study option allows families to develop a personalized education experience at home. It’s a flexible, parent-led program with state registration available to meet certain criteria and access select state resources.

Teacher Leader Advisors earn additional compensation while gaining insight and training

BATON ROUGE, La. -- The Louisiana Department of Education is searching for highly motivated educators who want to contribute to the next wave of instructional resources. Applications are now being accepted for the next cohort of Teacher Leader Advisors.

Teacher Leader Advisors (TLAs) are exceptional educators from across Louisiana who play an influential role in raising expectations for students and supporting the success of teachers. The 2021-2022 TLAs will use their robust knowledge of teaching and learning to review and create the next wave of high-quality instructional materials and training tools that will be used by thousands of teachers across the state.

Teacher Leader Advisors benefit through:

Compensation for completed projects

Training from LDOE staff throughout the year
Developing a deep understanding of the tools and resources LDOE provides educators
Collaborating with fellow educators and LDOE leadership

Any current Louisiana educator with three or more years of experience is eligible. Educators do not need to be a school-site Teacher Leader to apply. In addition to three or more years of experience, applicants should possess a desire for growth opportunities, a deep understanding of content standards and the capacity to devote time towards additional projects outside their normal workday.

The Department has a specific need for expert educators in the areas of early literacy, intervention specialist, Early Childhood (birth to 3 and pre-k), and K-12 science and social studies. There is also a need for K-12 teachers across ELA and math content areas. Special education teachers who specialize in these areas are also encouraged to apply.

For more information, contact louisianateacherleaders@la.gov or visit the Teacher Leaders website. The deadline to apply is June 12 at 5 p.m.

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