The ABCs of SCPPS

ACADEMICS
Celebrating the Class of 2026

The Class of 2026 from Destrehan and Hahnville High Schools secured a combined $37.3 million in financial aid and scholarship offers upon graduation last month. This total reflects the diverse athletic, vocational, and academic accomplishments of this year’s graduating seniors.

Destrehan High School seniors brought in $18.8 million of that total, led by valedictorian Cecilia Cody and salutatorian Hannah Burst. Hahnville High School graduates claimed $18.5 million, led by valedictorian Korinne Bourgeois and salutatorian Avery Oertling.
In the district, 35 students scored 30 or above on the ACT, with one student from each school earning perfect scores of 36. Additionally, two graduates from each school were recognized by the National Merit Scholarship Program.

Helping to ease the financial transition to higher education, the graduating class collectively earned thousands of college credits before receiving their high school diplomas. Collectively, SCPPS graduates earned more than 5,100 postsecondary credits, including more than 1,700 dual-enrollment hours.

The Class of 2026 will also be well-represented in collegiate sports, public service, and the workforce. Thirty-two student-athletes signed letters of intent to play at the university level, while 17 graduates committed to career and technical pathways, law enforcement, and the armed forces. For students transitioning directly into regional industries, the district saw a massive output of workforce credentials, totaling more than 1,900 industry-based certifications.

These diverse achievements reflect the district’s commitment to preparing students for multiple pathways after high school. Whether heading to a four-year university, entering the workforce with certified skills, or serving the community and country, the Class of 2026 leaves a lasting legacy of excellence in St. Charles Parish and beyond.

ATHLETICS
SCPPS Celebrates Student-Athletes During Inaugural Athletics Awards Ceremony

Student-athletes from across St. Charles Parish Public Schools were recognized for their achievements during the district’s first-ever Athletics Awards Ceremony, held on May 11, 2026. The student-led event, emceed by Richie Mills, co-host of Friday Night Football and Sports Director for WGNO, celebrated the accomplishments, leadership, and character of student-athletes from Destrehan and Hahnville High Schools while highlighting the district’s commitment to excellence in athletics. 

The ceremony was created to showcase the talent within the district and recognize students who have earned honors through the Louisiana High School Athletic Association. Director of Athletics and Physical Education Duane Foret shared that while schools traditionally celebrate athletic accomplishments individually, the event provided an opportunity for the district to collectively recognize student-athletes on a larger stage.

Throughout the evening, students, coaches, teams, and alumni were recognized with a variety of awards, with one of the highest honors of the evening, the Legacy Award, presented to SCPPS alums Ben Parquet (Bethune Class of 1957) and School Board Member Ellis Alexander (Carver Class of 1966).

A unique aspect of the event was the leadership role students played throughout the planning process. Students from both high schools worked through the district’s Student Athletic Advisory Committee to help coordinate the event from start to finish. According to Foret, the committee helped develop the theme of the evening, create award categories, identify the characteristics each award would represent, and help shape the overall tone of the ceremony.

“To be part of this committee, you need to be a leader and a voice for your peers, so it was ideal to have them lead this production,” he said.
In addition to celebrating athletic performance, the event emphasized the importance of recognizing qualities such as leadership, discipline, teamwork, resilience, sportsmanship, and academic responsibility. 

“Success is measured not only by championships but by the positive influence student-athletes have on others and the way they represent their school both on and off the field,” shared Foret.

By bringing together student-athletes, coaches, families, and community members for a districtwide celebration, the inaugural Athletics Awards Ceremony established a new tradition that highlights the role athletics play in developing leadership, character, and school pride.

THE ARTS
Lafon Summer Intensives Inspire Young Artists

The Lafon Performing Arts Center recently concluded its annual Spotlight Summer Intensives, a series of arts-based camps that once again attracted strong participation from families across the region, reflecting a growing interest in high-quality arts education opportunities for students.

"The overwhelming response affirms how deeply our community values arts education and creative opportunities for their children," said SCPPS Coordinator of the Arts Joshua Martin. "Families in St. Charles Parish are eager for programs that allow students to explore their creativity, build confidence, connect with peers, and participate meaningfully in the artistic process."

The summer programs offered specialized instruction in two tracks: visual arts and musical theatre. 

Visual Arts Intensive

Young artists entering first through eighth grades participated in the visual arts intensive, exploring a variety of creative mediums under the guidance of St. Charles Parish Public Schools’ visual art teachers.
"Having our own teachers lead the program makes the experience especially meaningful," Martin said. "Our teachers bring strong artistic skills, established relationships, encouragement, and a passion for helping students grow creatively."

Throughout the camp, students experimented with painting, drawing, mixed media, tie-dye, glow-in-the-dark art, and other hands-on projects designed to encourage artistic exploration and self-expression.

Musical Theatre Intensive

In the Shell Theatre, students entering fourth through ninth grades participated in daily classes focused on acting fundamentals, vocal projection, improvisation, stage presence, singing, and choreography.

The intensive culminated in a fully staged production of Seussical KIDS, a musical which follows the Cat in the Hat as he whisks a young child into the colorful world of Dr. Seuss.

"Seussical KIDS was selected because it is a well-loved, high-energy show with a strong ensemble structure," Martin said. "It allows every performer to have a meaningful moment to shine while contributing to the success of the full production. In just two weeks, students develop performance skills, collaboration, focus, resilience, and the ability to work as a team toward a shared goal."

Beyond the Stage and Studio

While the camps concluded with a visual art showcase and a public theatrical performance, organizers emphasize that the greatest impact occurred throughout the creative process itself. 

"It is powerful to see students grow from being reluctant or unsure on the first day to confidently sharing their ideas, talents, and creativity by the end of the program," Martin said. "Ultimately, we want every camper to feel inspired, valued, and empowered to continue pursuing artistic opportunities beyond the summer."

School Board Receives Final Report from Accounting Consultant

The St. Charles Parish School Board has received the final report from EisnerAmper, the independent firm engaged to provide accounting consulting services related to concerns regarding the district’s financial information. The report has been submitted to the St. Charles Parish District Attorney and the Louisiana Legislative Auditor and is available for public review through the district’s Financial Review Information Center.

Since concerns regarding the district’s financial records first came to light, the School Board has taken a series of actions to strengthen financial oversight and accountability. In addition to engaging EisnerAmper to provide accounting consulting services, the Board has directed and overseen the implementation of corrective measures aimed at improving financial monitoring, reporting, and internal controls.

The EisnerAmper report found that the district’s financial position was impacted by several related factors, including inaccurate or incomplete financial information, budgetary controls that did not support timely monitoring, and accounting practices that made it difficult to accurately assess the district’s financial position throughout the year. The report did not identify any misappropriation of funds.

The report’s completion marks an important milestone in the Board’s efforts to better understand the circumstances that contributed to the district’s current financial challenges and to identify opportunities for improvement. The Board continues to  monitor the implementation of recommendations and remains focused on addressing budget challenges while prioritizing personnel, instruction, compliance, and safety.

To support transparency and keep the community informed, the district has established an online Financial Review Information Center that includes the EisnerAmper report, a timeline of events, updates on implementation efforts, and frequently asked questions. The Financial Review Information Center can be accessed at wearescpps.org/for-community/financial-info-center.
 

Guided by Vision, Drive by Results

One of our School Board’s most important responsibilities is to establish a clear vision and direction for our school system. That work is guided by the Board’s Long-Range Strategic Action Plan (LRSAP), typically a three-year roadmap that serves as the foundation for continuous improvement across our district. The plan focuses on six key commitments: Student Achievement; Student Wellbeing and Belonging; Diverse, Effective, and Engaged Employees; Resource Allocation; Facility Management; and Stakeholder Investment. Each commitment identifies measurable objectives and specific action steps to improve student outcomes and strengthen our school system.

The development of the LRSAP is a collaborative process led by executive staff members through System-Based Teams comprised of district leaders, school administrators, teachers, support staff, school board members, parents, business and industry representatives, and community partners. These teams conduct comprehensive needs assessments by reviewing student performance data, operational metrics, stakeholder feedback, survey results, demographic trends, and other relevant information to identify strengths, challenges, and priorities for future improvement.

Once priorities are identified, teams set measurable objectives that define success and outline action steps to achieve those goals. The work does not stop once the plan is approved. Each year, System-Based Teams reconvene to review updated data, assess progress, refine strategies, and recommend any necessary adjustments. This ongoing process is shared with the school board during annual retreats and planning sessions to ensure accountability, transparency, and alignment with our community’s needs.

As we begin planning Phase XI of our Long-Range Strategic Action Plan, we remain committed to engaging stakeholders, listening to feedback, and making data-informed decisions that support our mission to provide high-quality educational opportunities for every student. 

Building Momentum Across the District

The following updates reflect progress on district priorities identified through the LRSAP, outlining key developments and next steps across instructional, operational, and community-focused work.

Commitment A: Student Achievement continues to center on expanding early learning and strengthening instructional systems. The district is increasing access through additional PK-4 classes in every neighborhood school. Instructional capacity is being strengthened through Instructional Leadership Teams, refinement of district academic planning structures, and development of common benchmark assessments across K–8 and high school LEAP courses. Coaching support continues for teachers implementing Louisiana Student Standards and high-quality instructional materials. Additional work includes expanding Industry-Based Certifications, increasing paid work-based learning opportunities, and preparing for the transition to new statewide comprehensive assessments scheduled to replace LEAP in 2028.

Commitment B: Student Wellbeing and Belonging includes ongoing improvements to transportation safety, including de-escalation training, upgraded HD bus cameras with stop-arm monitoring, and strengthened preventive maintenance systems. Child nutrition services are focusing on improved efficiency and student engagement through commodity utilization, program evaluation, team member training, and planning for future service delivery models. Student support systems continue to expand through full implementation of the 7 Mindsets SEL curriculum, increased behavioral health screening, trauma-informed practices, and Tier II interventions. Attendance supports, restorative practices, and cross-agency partnerships continue to address barriers to student success, along with an evaluation of the Before and After School Child Care program.

Commitment C: Diverse, Effective, and Engaged Employees includes strengthened recruitment pipelines through university partnerships, dual certification pathways, and the REACH Residency Program. Retention efforts include expanded “Promise to Return” agreements, enhanced onboarding and mentoring systems, and districtwide Stay Interviews. Leadership development continues through structured academies and cohort-based programs. Employee engagement has been strengthened through recognition initiatives and expanded wellness supports, including programs addressing chronic health conditions and preventive care.

Commitment D: Resource Allocation focuses on strengthening financial and technological systems. Improvements include expanded cashless transactions, payroll processing enhancements, vendor-supported operational efficiencies, and increased oversight through audits and compliance reviews. Technology priorities include implementation of recommendations from the LeanFrog ITS audit, expanded use of the Bark student safety platform, support for emergency response technologies such as Raptor and SmartPass, continued cybersecurity enhancements, network infrastructure improvements, and planning for redundant internet services. The district is also implementing recommendations from its AI Task Force while continuing to evaluate emerging technologies, evolving laws, ethics, and best practices related to artificial intelligence.

Commitment E: Facilities Management continues to advance priorities related to safety, sustainability, operations, and athletics. Key initiatives include implementing sustainability projects such as LED lighting upgrades and renewable energy projects, developing department standard operating procedures, and continuing construction of auxiliary gyms at elementary and middle schools. Safety efforts include enhanced emergency drills, evaluation of the resource officer program, electronic school safety audits, and implementation of electronic access systems at targeted locations with development of a phased plan for future expansion throughout the district. Additional work includes implementing staffing recommendations, reviewing maintenance and custodial staffing formulas, and implementing a new athletic website and mobile app.

Commitment F: Stakeholder Investment continues to expand alumni engagement, historical preservation, and community outreach. A developing alumni network includes approximately 15,000 records supported by formal associations and emerging governance structures. Historical preservation efforts include digitized yearbooks, interactive timelines, and public displays. Early literacy outreach and family engagement continue through summer programming, community events, and targeted early childhood initiatives. A districtwide accessibility review is underway to ensure compliance with federal requirements, alongside development of a formalized communications plan to strengthen transparency, branding, and engagement.

Collectively, these efforts reflect steady implementation of priorities identified through the LRSAP and a continued focus on improving outcomes, systems, and community connection.

ACADEMICS
National Recognition Highlights Strong Academics

St. Charles Parish Public Schools recently gained national recognition in the February 2026 edition of Business View Magazine for its innovative approach to preparing students for success in Louisiana’s River Region. The feature, titled “Building the Workforce of Tomorrow in Louisiana’s Energy Corridor,” highlighted the district’s integration of strong academics, student well-being, and career pathways that align with regional workforce needs.

The district emphasizes a “whole child” approach, combining high-quality instruction with social-emotional learning, mental health supports, and safe, welcoming campuses. Early literacy performance remains a top priority, with SCPPS recognized statewide for its achievements and plans underway to expand universal Pre-K offerings.

Career and technical education programs connect students directly to in-demand industries, including energy, manufacturing, logistics, technology, and biomedical sciences. Partnerships with local employers and higher education institutions allow students to experience real-world applications of classroom learning, from STEM integration to hands-on training at the Satellite Center.

Superintendent Dr. Ken Oertling explains, “Our purpose is to provide every student with opportunities to become lifelong learners and positive contributors to our local economy and community.” By blending rigorous academics with industry-aligned experiences, SCPPS ensures students are prepared for both college and career, while cultivating the skills and mindset needed for long-term success.

Learn more about SCPPS’ national recognition in Business View Magazine: Read the full article.

ATHLETICS
SCPPS Launches Inaugural Girls' Flag Football

St. Charles Parish Public Schools is officially expanding its athletic horizons this spring. Through a partnership with the New Orleans Saints and the Louisiana High School Athletic Association (LHSAA), the district has launched its first-ever girls’ flag football program, introducing one of the nation’s fastest-growing high school sports to the parish.

When surveys were sent out in January, more than 100 students at each school expressed interest in vying for a spot on the inaugural rosters. Following weeks of intensive preparation, official league play started on March 16.

This initiative aligns with a broader national movement, supported by the NFL, to increase female participation in competitive athletics. Duane Foret, SCPPS Athletic Director, views the program as a vital investment in the district’s future.

"Supported by the NFL, this initiative positions our district to align with national trends in secondary athletics," said Foret. "It ensures more students have access to valuable team experiences that promote development and well-being. The addition of girls' flag football underscores our commitment to providing inclusive and diverse opportunities for all students."

Looking forward, the district aims to build on this momentum. Foret indicated that the long-term vision includes developing a premier competitive program and exploring the potential expansion of flag football to the middle school level.

THE ARTS
18 Years of Creativity: ArtsFest 2026

St. Charles Parish Public Schools continues to provide dynamic arts opportunities for every student
through programs like the Lafon Arts Center’s Artsperiences, which offers students the opportunity to attend a free, curriculum-connected performing arts experience during the school day. This year, more than 7,000 students engaged directly with artists from around the world, gaining hands-on experiences that complement classroom learning.

ArtsFest, the district’s 18th annual celebration of student creativity held on March 14, highlighted
student participation and engagement while inviting the community to explore hands-on stations, demonstrations, and student-led activities in theatre, dance, music, and visual arts.

Attendees experienced activities ranging from sculpture and digital media to piano and percussion,
culminating in a collaborative performance by Broadway star Mandy Gonzalez with the Louisiana
Philharmonic Orchestra and SCPPS middle school students.

ArtsFest featured visual arts exhibits alongside performing arts, giving attendees a full view of student creativity across disciplines. One highlight this year was “The Colors That Run Through Us,” a tapestry celebrating America’s 250th anniversary with contributions from art students of all levels. This installation, symbolizing a continuous history, intergenerational connection, and the shared spirit of the community, is one of several exhibits displayed throughout the Lafon Arts Center. The ArtsFest gallery remains open to the public Wednesday–Friday from 12 noon to 4 PM through April 10, offering ongoing opportunities to experience student creativity.

SCPPS Millage Renewals on May 16th Ballot

On May 16, St. Charles Parish voters will have the opportunity to vote on two school system millage renewals. The two SCPPS millages are not new taxes, just renewals of existing taxes already paid by St. Charles Parish property owners, with one of the renewals proposed at a rate lower than the current authorized rate.

The funding provided by these two millages makes up 36% of the school system’s annual budget and is a critical component of the district’s success, helping fund necessities like teacher salaries, special resources and programs, safety and security tools, state-of-the-art technology, and facility improvements.

Superintendent Dr. Ken Oertling emphasized the importance of millage funding, saying, “Renewing these vital millages maintains the progress we’ve made as a district and allows us to continue to deliver exceptional educational opportunities, keep our classrooms equipped with modern technology, ensure facilities are safe and up-to-date, provide our teachers
with competitive pay, and support every student in reaching their full potential.”

Renewing these millages is essential to sustaining the high-quality education St. Charles Parish students know and deserve. Without millage funding, the district could face significant challenges in meeting ongoing operational and
instructional needs. St. Charles Parish residents are encouraged to head to the polls on May 16 to make their voices heard. For more information about the upcoming election and ballot details, visit www.wearescpps.org/renewals.

Board Approves Renaming of Early Learning Center

The St. Charles Parish School Board approved the renaming of the East Bank Head Start Center in Destrehan to M.M. Bethune Early Learning Center at its February 25th meeting.

The renaming follows a review process led by a district task force, which examined the rationale and feasibility of the change before making a recommendation to the superintendent. After reviewing the findings, the superintendent presented a formal recommendation to the board. The decision supports a goal of aligning the naming of the district’s early childhood facilities.

The newly named center honors Mary McLeod Bethune, a nationally recognized educator and civil rights advocate who dedicated her life to expanding educational opportunities for African American students. She founded a school for African American girls in Florida that later became Bethune-Cookman University and served as an advisor to U.S. presidents on education and civil rights. 

Her name also holds local significance. Mary M. Bethune High School in Norco, which opened in 1952, served African American students until 1969, when schools were integrated and high school students began attending Destrehan High School.

This connection to the district’s history also aligns with its other early childhood campus, G.W. Carver Early Learning
Center. With this renaming, both sites share a consistent designation as early learning centers, each honoring former schools within the parish that closed as result of integration.

Listening, Learning, and Improving Together

Share your feedback during the Stakeholder Survey
Open APRIL 13-24
to help shape the future of St. Charles Parish Public Schools.

Beginning April 13, you can access the survey through the QR code or by visiting www.surveymonkey.com/r/26SCPPS_ParentSurvey.

The Upbeat Engagement Survey, administered to all employees each fall and again in the spring, measures how supported, valued, and connected our staff feel in their roles. Research shows that when employees are engaged, they are more effective and better able to support student success. Using these results, school and district leaders develop targeted action plans to strengthen workplace culture, support employees, and enhance teaching and learning.

Equally important is the feedback we receive from students and families through the Stakeholder Survey. This survey gathers input on key areas such as school safety, communication, academic expectations, and interactions between teachers, students, and families. It also provides  opportunities for open-ended feedback, allowing families to share what is working well and where improvements can be made. 

Results from both surveys are used at the school and district levels to guide continuous improvement efforts. These tools provide real data to guide decisions, target resources effectively, and address the needs of every student and family we serve.

The Stakeholder Survey will be open for families from April 13–24, and your participation is essential. Feedback collected during this window directly informs school and district decisions that affect students every day. Taking a few minutes to share your perspective ensures that your voice is part of the improvements shaping the school year and beyond.

SCPPS Celebrates Grand Opening of Triple A Alumni Centers

St. Charles Parish Public Schools celebrated the grand openings of the new Triple A Alumni Centers at Destrehan and Hahnville High Schools with ribbon-cutting ceremonies held on March 4 and March 13, 2026. The new facilities honor the district’s longstanding history while creating modern spaces that support students and strengthen connections with alumni.

The name “Triple A” represents the district’s three pillars of excellence: Academics, Athletics, and the Arts. Each center serves as a welcoming hub for students, alumni, and community members to gather, recognize achievements, and preserve the legacy of their schools.

“These centers represent more than just new buildings,” said Superintendent Dr. Ken Oertling. “The Triple A Alumni Center is a physical testament to what we value most. Whether you walked the halls decades ago or are a student today, this space is a tribute to our shared journey and an investment in people, legacy, and the future or our schools.”

Each Triple A Alumni Center features historical timeline walls, interactive kiosks with digitized collections, and displays of donated memorabilia. The spaces were intentionally designed to preserve the legacies of Mary M. Bethune High School and George W. Carver High School, recognizing their  foundational roles in the community and the students they shaped. Community members can explore the same digitized collections of yearbooks and historical records available on the onsite kiosks remotely at:

• Triple A Alumni Center Kiosk at Destrehan High School
• Triple A Alumni Center Kiosk at Hahnville High School

In addition to preserving history, the centers will serve as active campus spaces for academic ceremonies, testing, athletic signings, arts celebrations, alumni gatherings, and student recognition events. With the opening of the Triple A Alumni Centers, SCPPS continues its commitment to celebrating tradition while creating spaces that support student success and community pride.

Alumni Associations Begin Formal Organization Process

Newly elected officers for the Alumni Association of Bethune-Destrehan High School and the Alumni Association of Carver-Hahnville High School recently came together for a joint kickoff meeting to begin formalizing both groups. 

The meeting marked the start of a coordinated effort to establish each association as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Leadership teams are currently focused on key initial steps, including filing Articles of Incorporation, developing bylaws, and creating a plan to guide future growth and engagement. 

As the associations take shape, the focus remains on strengthening connections among alumni while creating opportunities to support current students. Additional information on how to join and get involved will be shared as the formal process progresses.