With the rollout of the 2026 “Grow. Achieve. Thrive.” accountability system, Louisiana schools can no longer afford to approach academic progress as “business as usual.” This new era requires careful re-evaluation of how student achievement is recognized, how grades are awarded, and even what it takes for students to participate in extracurricular programs.
Raising the Bar for Real Growth
For years, honor rolls and celebrations have often hinged simply on GPA or passing grades that include “PE,” “Music”, “Art,” or even “conduct” in some cases. The bar is changing and will be reflected in April 2026 testing.
The state’s new accountability formula places true mastery front and center: just “passing” is not enough. Just scoring “basic” or “approaching basic” is not enough.
To adjust, districts will need to radically change their academic standards. That means honor rolls, honor society membership, and academic awards should recognize students who reach mastery or advanced achievement levels—not those whose GPAs reflect achievement in subjects other than English, Math, Science, or Social Studies .
This means local grading scales may need to be reimagined. Schools should align letter grades with the rigorous performance bands used in state accountability, making “A” and “B” grades signals of true proficiency in English, math, science, and social studies. When standards rise, the meaning and value of an “A” or “Honor Roll” must also rise.
Academic Performance and Activities
It will be controversial, but the new standard should also apply to extracurricular eligibility. Whether in athletics, the arts, or student organizations, participation ought to require not just minimal passing marks but demonstrable growth and mastery in key subjects. Outside groups, such as the LSHAA, have low expectations for athletes and allow them to participate with the lowest possible grades in core subjects, but schools must decide whether academics or athletics are their priority. It would be wonderful if the LSHAA would raise its standards to help schools motivate student athletes.
No Room for Complacency
Simulated scores for 2026 show that even schools with historically strong marks are projected to drop at least one grade level next year unless they fix gaps in student growth and achievement. The days of celebrating average gains or relying on old metrics are over. Schools must invest in individual academic progress, making student growth—not static achievement—the central measure of success.
Opportunity Out of Challenge
Rather than lament the tougher standards, Ouachita Parish and Monroe City Schools should see this as an opportunity. With a clear, transparent scorecard and focus on growth, mastery, and readiness for life after graduation, families can better understand what schools expect—and schools can better support every student, especially those who need help the most.
The new rules mean schools must raise their vision for every student “from passing to mastering.”
Those unwilling to adjust may find treasured traditions, activities, and reputations at risk.
