Louisiana has received recent attention for some of its new education policies and promising early results. In this report, RAND researchers provide an in-depth description of Louisiana's approach to improving student outcomes since 2012. The authors examine how the state has used various policy levers -- including mandates, resource alignment, incentives, and communication and planning processes -- to pursue reform strategies in four areas: early childhood education, K-12 academics, K-12 teacher preparation, and graduation pathways. This report sets the stage for more in-depth analyses of Louisiana's policy implementation, challenges, and student outcomes that might be linked to its reform efforts. Reports detailing these analyses will also provide recommendations on how Louisiana's and similar efforts might be improved. Key findings from the report include: (1) In each area of the Louisiana's reform efforts, there is a clarity of vision around what constitutes "high-quality" teaching and learning; (2) When reforms are not part of federal mandates, reform strategies follow a theory of implementation and action that might be more expected to lead to change; (3) State leaders engage in close communication with educators to gather feedback and promote buy-in; (4) LDOE has established partnerships with external stakeholders who have embraced the state's vision; (5) LDOE has undertaken efforts to align its mandates with incentives, resources, and tools; (6) The resources and incentives provided by the state are intended to promote equity; and (7) LDOE has created an accountability system that uses indicators of both processes and outcomes, with increasing emphasis on outcomes as students get older. [Support from Baton Rouge Area Foundation, the sponsor of the report.]