Lafayette Reporter

Senator John Kennedy from Louisiana has contributed an op-ed to Newsweek, focusing on the state of K-12 education in America. The senator highlights progress in Louisiana's education system as an example of how states can manage education policies effectively.

In the article, Kennedy notes, “As graduation season approaches, some high school seniors face a sad reality: They never learned to read.” He mentions lawsuits from graduates across the nation against their schools for not teaching fundamental skills. “One student plaintiff said he couldn't even spell his name. Too many K-12 schools in America have become failure factories,” he points out.

Kennedy underscores a growing sentiment among Republicans about the role of the Department of Education. “Looking at these numbers, it is easy to understand why many Republicans have proposed shutting down the Department of Education altogether. American students would be better off if the states handled education—and my home state, Louisiana, provides a perfect example," he states.

He supports his argument by citing Louisiana's progress in improving its reading proficiency ranking among fourth graders from last to 16th between 2019 and 2024.

In conclusion, Kennedy remarks on the inefficacy of the Department of Education, stating, “The status quo at the Department of Education isn't working, and the United States cannot afford to keep spending money on departments that don't deliver results for the American people. Louisiana's schools are far from perfect, but it is undeniable that our state is on the right track.”

Kennedy's full op-ed is available for reading in Newsweek.