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The East Baton Rouge Parish School System is launching an ambitious initiative to elevate its high schools, with a $40 million bond dedicated to transforming facilities and expanding opportunities across its campuses. EBR Schools Superintendent LaMont Cole recently detailed the vision and purpose behind this initiative, emphasizing the district’s commitment to providing a truly exceptional high school experience.
For many students, high school represents a pivotal chapter in their lives – a time to build memories, grow academically and prepare for future success. Yet, as Superintendent Cole recognizes, many EBR high schools are limited by outdated athletic facilities, aging auditoriums and a lack of modern resources – putting local students at a disadvantage compared to neighboring communities.
“We offer strong academic programs, and our workforce development center is first class,” Cole explains, “but our athletic fields, fine arts facilities, gymnasiums and other spaces haven’t kept pace. When students in surrounding areas step onto premier fields or into top-notch auditoriums, that becomes part of their unforgettable school experience and EBR students deserve the same.”
This bond proposal aims to address those disparities. The School Board has voted to move forward, empowering individual schools to identify their greatest needs through comprehensive surveys. In these surveys, each school community is asked to assess what upgrades and expansions would most benefit their populations.
“We wanted schools themselves to lead this process,” says Cole. “They know their students best. Some need new football fields or stadium lighting to keep athletes engaged. Others want improvements in auditoriums or expanded career-training courses. We’re focused on building out experiences that matter for all students, no matter their passion.”
Once submitted, Cole, his team and the School Board will review proposals. The overarching goal is equity – ensuring that resources are directed where they will do the most good. That might mean a new weight room or sports track at one school, renovated performing arts spaces at another, or state-of-the-art workforce classrooms in a third. “We want every student to feel pride in their school and excitement about coming to class, whether they’re competing, performing or preparing for their careers,” Cole adds.
Looking ahead, Superintendent Cole envisions high schools that are not only functional but inspiring, with stellar facilities that make families proud and attract community partnerships. “When we invest in our schools, we uplift our students, teachers and neighborhoods. We set the stage for academic success and lifelong memories. That’s our mission, and this bond is a crucial step toward making it reality.”
