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Twenty years after Hurricane Katrina devastated New Orleans, its school system has undergone a dramatic transformation. Nearly all public schools are now charter schools, leading to improved test scores and graduation rates. However, this shift wasn't without controversy. Initial challenges included inexperienced charter operators and a focus on test scores over other educational aspects. While improvements are evident, the system still faces ongoing issues, including school closures and disparities in school quality based on location and socioeconomic factors. The city is now exploring a more balanced approach, potentially incorporating directly-run schools alongside the charter system.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.