Helping shape the future of Broussard today, local schools prepare the next generation of employees to master the skills they will need later on in their lives. Along the way, Lafayette Parish School System makes learning fun so that students remain curious and engaged.
Serving students in Broussard, Katharine Drexel Elementary School, Broussard Middle School, Southside High School, Comeaux High School and St. Cecilia Catholic School see to the educational needs of the community.
Educators are dedicated to helping students thrive both in and outside of the classroom. Through the district’s early childhood department, children can participate in pre-K classes that help them prepare for their first day of kindergarten. The pre-K program follows the Louisiana Department of Education Birth to 5 Early Learning Development Standards. Likewise, every pre-K site, which includes Katharine Drexel Elementary, has an early childhood resource coordinator who helps pupils, parents and educators be fully prepared for school.
While mastering basic concepts are vital to a student’s education, getting a jump-start on career skills is equally important. Through career and technical education courses, students develop high-level academic skills and can even obtain specific industry certifications in various occupational sectors. These courses benefit scholars who have plans to attend college or pursue the workforce right after high school graduation. These courses include a vast range of fields, including health care, STEM (science, technology, engineering and math), hospitality
and tourism, business and legal.
The arts play a complementary part of students’ education. With opportunities to participate in music, dance, theater and visual art, scholars develop critical thinking skills, hone creative self expression and establish an appreciation for the arts for life.
On top of that, students also have the chance to partake in physical education and athletics. Physical education classes allow students to take responsibility of their health and learn how to maintain physical fitness throughout their lives.
Students learn good sportsmanship and teamwork by participating in athletics, which include wrestling, golf, baseball, bowling, volleyball, soccer and softball.
Aside from athletics, there are numerous ways to get involved through clubs and organizations. These include yearbook, French Club, 4-H, Beta Club, FFA, homecoming committee, literacy rally, Key Club, creative camera, National Honor Society, robotics, speech club, student government and swim team.
Estimated to open fall 2019, the new Billeaud Elementary School will span two stories and more than 90,000 square feet. The school will also feature a media center, cafetorium and administrative wing.
For families looking to provide their child with a faith-based, rigorous curriculum, St. Cecilia Catholic School is also an option in Broussard.
Established by the Sisters of Divine Providence in the early 1900s, the school educates students in pre-K through eighth grades. Likewise, students learn from the best. St. Cecilia’s teachers are certified in their academic area, and many faculty members possess or are working toward a master’s degree. Educators also attend workshops and seminars so they stay atop of trends and the most advanced ways of teaching and learning.
Instruction meets the Louisiana Department of Education’s Grade Level Standards and College and Career Readiness Standards. Students are immersed in engaging reading and math programs that prepare them for high school and beyond.
On top of that, students are learning from 21st century tools that will prepare them for the workplace and other educational pursuits. All classrooms are outfitted with student computers and iPads, as well as interactive Smart Boards. Students also have access to on-site computer labs.
Complementing academics, St. Cecilia’s extracurricular activities provide a well-rounded education to pupils. They can participate in athletics, youth ministry, art, 4-H, speech and drama, quiz bowl and Junior Beta.