Decision to Be Made on Caddo Schools’ Fate
Following a proposition submission from the Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE) and the Recovery School District (RSD), the future of Caddo Parish’s academic arena is poised for change. The Caddo Parish School Board received the proposition on April 26, suggesting a series of significant changes to the school district’s structure, including the closure of several campuses and other strategic modifications.
The Proposition and Its Impacts
The RSD and LDOE’s proposition calls for the closure of Werner Park Elementary and Sunset Acres Elementary by the end of the 2023-2024 school year. Additionally, it suggests the conversion of Fair Park Middle School into a charter school operated by Third Future Schools, commencing from the 2024-2025 school year.
Furthermore, the leadership at Atkins Elementary, Bethune-Oak Park Elementary, Broadmoor STEM Academy, and Caddo Middle Career & Technology is required to reapply for their positions, along with an offer of differentiated compensation. The proposition also recommends an extension of the school choice application period for affected schools and a partnership with Star Academy to provide a ‘school-within-a-school’ model in selected locations.
State Mandate for Underperforming Schools
According to state laws, the RSD possesses the authority to demand a reconstitution plan or closure for a school system designated as academically unacceptable for four or more consecutive years. If the school board fails to approve the proposed plan by May 15, the state may assume control of the seven campuses currently rated as academically unacceptable.
Next Steps and School Board’s Statement
Before the final vote on the proposed plan, district leaders are expected to meet with the staff of Werner Park, Sunset Acres, and Fair Park on April 29 to discuss the next steps. A special meeting will be held on May 3, where the LDOE will present the plan to the school board for a final decision.
In a statement released by the school board, it welcomes opportunities that can improve outcomes for the students and remains committed to providing the most beneficial opportunities for every child in the district.
Implications for Caddo Parish Schools
Should the school board decline the proposed plan by the RSD, the state would have the authority to take over the seven campuses currently marked as academically unacceptable. The proposition is undoubtedly a pivotal point in the district’s educational pathway, one that could significantly reshape the future of Caddo Parish Schools.
The decision taken by the school board will not only affect the schools’ faculty and administrative bodies but the students and their families as well. Therefore, a comprehensive communication plan would be required to ensure all stakeholders are adequately informed about the changes to come.
