Avoyelles students return to class

By Amy Ducote

Alarm clocks are ringing, backpacks are packed,
and school buses are preparing to roll as students across
Avoyelles Parish begin the 2026–2027 school year.

Most Avoyelles Parish public school students will
return to class Thursday, Aug. 6, following three days
of staff development. The opening marks the beginning
of another school year filled with new teachers,
new classmates and new opportunities for students
throughout the parish.

Several local schools are following different schedules.
Avoyelles Public Charter School began classes July 27.
St. Mary’s Assumption School in Cottonport welcomed students
back Tuesday, Aug. 4, and Sacred Heart School in Moreauville
began classes today, Wednesday, Aug. 5.
St. Anthony of Padua Catholic School in Bunkie
will begin classes Friday, Aug. 7.
St. Joseph Catholic Elementary and High School
in Plaucheville will welcome students back Wednesday, Aug. 12.

Most public school open houses have already been held.
Riverside Elementary School will hold its open house
Wednesday, Aug. 5, from 5 to 6:30 p.m.
Open house allows families to meet teachers, visit classrooms
and receive information before the first day of school.

As students return, drivers are reminded to slow
down near campuses, watch carefully for children and
obey school bus signals. Families should also allow
extra travel time during the first few days as buses,
car lines and new routines settle into place.

Parents are encouraged to review transportation arrangements,
dismissal plans, school rules and emergency contact
information with their children. Students should arrive
prepared and on time, while younger children should
know the name of their school, teacher and the adult
responsible for picking them up.

Stay Safe & Connected

Avoyelles Parish Public Schools is also reminding
families about the free Safe Schools Louisiana app,
provided through Crime Stoppers.

The app allows students, parents, school employees
and community members to anonymously report bullying,
suspicious activity, potential threats and other
school safety concerns. Reports are forwarded to the
appropriate authorities for review.

Users can submit anonymous tips, access safety resources
and quickly connect with assistance during an emergency.
The app is available through the Apple App Store and Google Play.

School safety is a shared responsibility. Families are
encouraged to speak with children about reporting
inappropriate behavior and reminding them that threats,
bullying and suspicious activity should never be ignored.

For back-to-school questions, contact your child’s
school or the Avoyelles Parish School Board at 318-253-5982.