The Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) has approved new policy changes that will reduce the number of high school state assessments, marking the latest step in the state’s ongoing effort to streamline testing while maintaining high academic standards.

The initiative is part of State Superintendent of Education Dr. Cade Brumley’s long-term strategy to cut down on testing time without compromising rigor or accountability.

“This surgical approach reduces testing while maintaining the validity and rigor of these vital assessments,” said Dr. Brumley. “It shows we can listen to our educators, improve the system, and uphold high expectations.”

Beginning with students entering ninth grade in the 2026–2027 school year, Louisiana high schools will shift to a comprehensive exam model for English Language Arts (ELA) and math. Instead of taking two separate exams in each subject, students will complete one comprehensive exam in ELA and math at the end of tenth grade.

Currently, high school students take six required state assessments — two in ELA (English I and II), two in math (Algebra I and Geometry), one in science (Biology), and one in social studies (Civics). The new policy will reduce that number from six to four, eliminating one ELA and one math test.

This change coincides with the rollout of new Louisiana Student Standards for ELA and math, ensuring a stronger alignment between instruction and assessment design.

The decision builds on the Louisiana Department of Education’s multi-year plan to reduce testing while maintaining academic integrity.

• In October 2024, testing time for grades 3–8 ELA and math was reduced by 20%, cutting redundant tasks.

• In March 2025, the state announced a 50% reduction in social studies testing for grades 3–8, shifting assessments to grades 3, 5, and 8 under the Freedom Framework standards.

• The department is now exploring additional reductions for science testing in grades 3–8.

State officials emphasize that while the structure of testing is evolving, assessments remain a crucial tool for measuring student progress and guiding school improvement.

“These responsible shifts reflect our commitment to balancing accountability with classroom instruction,” Dr. Brumley said. “We are reducing unnecessary testing while continuing to ensure Louisiana students receive a high-quality education that prepares them for success.”