The Terrebonne Parish School Board convened on February 18, 2025, to discuss various educational initiatives and updates, focusing on the resilience of the local community and the implementation of new safety protocols in schools.

The meeting began with a discussion on the community's resilience, particularly in the context of educational recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic. Board members acknowledged the swift return of students to in-person learning, contrasting it with other regions where schools remained closed for extended periods. They credited the efforts of teachers, administrators, and support staff for their roles in facilitating this transition, emphasizing that this proactive approach helped mitigate learning gaps among students.

Board member Benoit highlighted the leadership of former superintendent Martin in making timely decisions that prioritized classroom learning. The board collectively praised the ongoing commitment to ensuring that students have access to quality education and the importance of teamwork in achieving these goals.

The meeting then shifted to a significant safety initiative involving the introduction of a new choking response protocol, presented by Erin Klingman. The protocol incorporates the use of a device known as the LifeVac, which is designed to assist in choking emergencies. Klingman explained that the Terrebonne Parish School District is now an American Heart Association training site, allowing for the development of a local choking protocol that integrates the LifeVac into existing emergency response procedures.

Klingman detailed the training process for paraeducators, which is set to begin shortly, and mentioned plans to expand training to teachers and cafeteria staff in the future. The board discussed the importance of having these devices readily available in schools, particularly in high-risk areas like cafeterias, where choking incidents are more likely to occur.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the importance of these initiatives in enhancing student safety and well-being. Board members expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts of staff and the community in implementing these critical measures. The board plans to continue monitoring the effectiveness of the new protocols and ensure that all staff are adequately trained in emergency response procedures.