The East Baton Rouge (EBR) School Board unveiled a new accountability grading system during its Committee of the Whole meeting on September 4, 2025, aiming to reshape how schools are evaluated based on student performance. The new system, which will be implemented over the next two years, will utilize a bell curve approach to assign letter grades to school districts and individual schools.

Under this new grading formula, the top 10% of schools will receive an 'A', the next 20% a 'B', followed by 40% earning a 'C', 20% a 'D', and the bottom 10% an 'F'. This method is designed to provide a more nuanced assessment of school performance, as explained by board members during the meeting. The state has spent two years analyzing data to ensure the new system accurately reflects student achievement.

A key takeaway from the discussion was the emphasis on the LEAP assessments, which will account for 75% of high school evaluations and 100% for K-8 schools. This shift marks a significant change from the previous accountability system, focusing more on teaching and learning outcomes.

In addition to the grading system, the board reported a notable improvement in staffing, with 97.2% of school-based instructional and support staff now in place. The HR department's aggressive recruitment efforts have reduced certified teaching vacancies to just 59, a significant improvement compared to the previous year.

Board members also discussed the potential for utilizing substitute teachers more effectively, particularly in schools that require additional academic support. The curriculum department is set to assist substitutes in classrooms where they may need extra guidance, ensuring that students receive the necessary educational support.

The EBR School Board plans to continue refining the accountability system and will provide further updates in future meetings, highlighting their commitment to enhancing educational outcomes across the district.