During a recent meeting of the Saint Tammany Parish School Board, educators and board members discussed significant initiatives aimed at enhancing college and career readiness for students. Dr. Langlois highlighted the upcoming College and Career Expo at the Harper Center, emphasizing its role in preparing students for post-secondary education and careers. The event is part of a broader strategy to ensure that students graduate with either college credits or vocational credentials.

The board reiterated its commitment to personalized education, with counselors and coordinators working closely with students to create tailored graduation plans. Currently, students can earn college credits through Advanced Placement (AP) exams, dual enrollment courses, or the CLEP test, with the district offering 62 courses for credit. Partnerships with local universities and colleges facilitate these opportunities, and the district covers the cost of 12 dual enrollment credits per student.

The discussion also touched on the importance of community service, with Saint Tammany recognized for having one of the highest numbers of students earning community service endorsements. Board members encouraged students to engage in various extracurricular activities and community service projects, which are integral to their development and recognition upon graduation.

Concerns were raised regarding recent changes in internship policies, particularly the requirement for financial compensation for internships, which could limit opportunities for students. Board members expressed the need for a more comprehensive evaluation of student readiness beyond standardized testing, advocating for a focus on the overall educational experience.

The meeting concluded with a call for community involvement in upcoming events and initiatives, reinforcing the district's commitment to fostering an environment that supports student growth and prepares them for future success.