The Terrebonne Parish (Louisiana) School Board has voted to close three elementary schools as part of a district restructuring plan.
WWL-TV reports that at the end of the 2023-24 school year, the district will shutter Honduras Elementary and Bayou Black Elementary in Houma, and Gibson Elementary in Gibson. Students, teachers, and staff will move to other schools.
The board voted 6-3 to approve the plan.
Terrebonne Parish Superintendent Bubba Orgeron says the closings are an attempt to address declining enrollment and a shortage of certified teachers.
In the last five years, enrollment has dropped by about 12%.
Orgeron says the plan will save the district up to $10 million a year. Some uncertified staff may lose their jobs.
Dozens of Terrebonne families spoke against the plan.
The reorganization plan calls for Gibson students to relocate to Schriever Elementary and Caldwell Middle schools. Bayou Black students will be dispersed to Schriever, Caldwell and Mulberry. Honduras students will attend Village East and Acadian Elementary.
