During the Tangipahoa Parish School System's Finance & Audit Meeting on July 25, 2025, officials addressed the low participation rate of families in a crucial insurance program designed to protect students during school activities. Currently, only about 30 to 40 percent of families are taking advantage of the $28 annual coverage, which provides significant benefits for injuries occurring on campus or during extracurricular activities.

The discussion highlighted the importance of improving communication about this insurance option, which covers a range of incidents, including injuries from playground accidents or fights. With a potential benefit of up to $250,000 for medical treatment, officials emphasized that the program is a valuable resource for families, especially given the frequent inquiries from parents about coverage after their children sustain injuries.

Concerns were raised about the feasibility of integrating this insurance fee into the overall school fees, as the district currently faces challenges with collection rates. If participation does not improve, the district could be liable for substantial costs associated with student injuries, which could amount to hundreds of thousands of dollars.

To enhance awareness, officials proposed creating a simplified informational sheet for parents detailing the insurance coverage, costs, and enrollment process. This initiative aims to ensure that all families are informed about the benefits available to them, potentially increasing participation and reducing the financial burden on the school district.

As the meeting concluded, the committee agreed to further explore the insurance options and communication strategies, with the goal of ensuring that every student has access to this essential coverage. The next steps will involve gathering more information and feedback from stakeholders to facilitate better outreach and understanding of the program.