Written By Ellyn T. McKinney, M.Ed.
As a mother, educator, and longtime advocate for student-centered learning, I understand just how personal—and sometimes overwhelming—the search for the right educational fit can be. With more than 30 years of experience in education, from classroom teaching to serving as a Network Deputy Director at the Louisiana Department of Education, I’ve seen firsthand the value of choice—and how deeply it matters when it comes to your child’s growth.
This guide is for families across North Louisiana who want to explore their options with clarity and confidence. Whether you’re considering public, private, charter, or homeschool, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The best school is the one that fits your child—and your family.
Public Schools: A Strong Foundation
Public education has long been the backbone of opportunity in America, and here in North Louisiana, we’re fortunate to have many districts doing exceptional work. The Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE) provides annual letter grades for public schools—based on student achievement, growth, and readiness metrics—offering families helpful insight.
Here’s how a few local districts recently scored:
- A-rated: DeSoto and Lincoln Parishes
- B-rated: Bossier, Caddo, Natchitoches, Ouachita, and Sabine Parishes
- C-rated: Other districts across the Lola readership region
These letter grades, available in the most recent statewide performance report, reflect the dedicated efforts of educators throughout our area—many of whom are committed to helping students thrive in the classroom and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions from Parents
Q: Is it bad if my child’s school teaches to the state test?
A: Not at all. Louisiana’s state-mandated tests are directly aligned with academic standards—meaning they assess what your child should be learning. When a teacher “teaches to the test,” they’re typically following a pacing guide that ensures your child is learning what’s required for success. That’s not only acceptable—it’s best practice.
Q: What are all these other tests my child is taking?
A: Great question. Let’s break down a few common ones:
DIBELS: Assesses early reading skills to identify literacy needs and provide targeted support.
Benchmark Tests: Used periodically to measure progress toward learning goals and adjust instruction.
Exit Tickets: Short, end-of-lesson tools to gauge understanding—not usually graded, but valuable for the teacher.
Q: Is homework necessary—and why is there so much?
A: Yes… and no. Homework helps reinforce skills and gives parents a window into classroom learning. But too much can steal time from family and play. Education researcher John Hattie notes that homework has minimal effect in elementary grades, but becomes more impactful in high school—especially when it supports independent study and review.
So, your third grader may not need 45 minutes of worksheets, but your high schooler reviewing biology notes is gaining ground.
Q: What exactly is a charter school, and who governs them?
A: Charter schools are public schools that operate with more flexibility. In Louisiana, we categorize them by type:
Type 1: Created by local school boards
Type 2: Authorized by the state Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE)
Type 3/3B: Converted from existing schools
Type 4: Operated in partnership with nonprofits or universities
They’re often innovative and mission-driven—and while more autonomous, they remain accountable to public standards.
Q: Are private schools accredited by the state?
A: Some are, some aren’t. State-accredited private schools meet academic standards and issue official Louisiana diplomas—important for college and school transfers. Others operate independently, with their own curriculum and philosophy. Accreditation is important and worth asking about when you tour.
Q: We’re considering homeschooling. What should we know?
A: Homeschooling has grown significantly in recent years, and I hold deep respect for families who pursue it. Done well, it allows for highly personalized instruction and flexible scheduling. Louisiana requires registered home-study programs to document progress, but parents have wide latitude in daily instruction.
You can find current
guidelines here: LDOE Homestudy Program Guidelines (PDF)
Q: How do we choose the right path for our family?
A: Start by asking lots of questions. Inquire about:
- School culture
- Discipline approach
- Literacy and math support
- Enrichment, the arts, athletics
- Parent-teacher communication
Visit schools. Observe classrooms. Talk to other parents. Most importantly—talk with your child. What excites them? What worries them? Their voice matters.
When Concerns Arise
If your child comes home saying, “I hate school,” take a breath and ask gentle follow-ups. Often, it’s a small issue—like a cafeteria disappointment or a social misstep. Your calm response can open the door to meaningful conversations.
And if concerns arise about a teacher? In the early weeks of school, I encourage parents to give grace. Educators are juggling 20+ personalities and routines. What seems like unfairness may simply be classroom-wide correction. Try asking your child to list a few positive things about their teacher—it often shifts the narrative and builds empathy.
The Bottom Line
Whether your child is thriving in a Bossier Parish public school, attending a faith-based private academy in Monroe, enrolled in a Caddo charter, or curled up with books in a Lincoln Parish homeschool co-op—the most important ingredients for success are:
- Connection to caring teachers and meaningful instruction
- Access to high-quality materials and support
- High expectations for growth and achievement
- Time—to be a child, to play, and to fall in love with learning
- Because in the end, school should be fun.
You’re not just picking a program. You’re choosing a community—a place that will shape how your child sees the world, and their place within it.