East Baton Rouge leaders address St. George's potential school district challenges

In a special meeting held on May 19, 2025, the East Baton Rouge (EBR) School Board engaged in critical discussions regarding the potential establishment of a new school district in St. George. The meeting highlighted the complexities surrounding legislative involvement in local education policies and the financial implications of such a transition.

Board member Mr. Godet raised concerns about the necessity of legislative approval for changes to school board policies, emphasizing the challenges of convincing legislators from distant areas, such as Shreveport, to support local initiatives. He pointed out that the legislative process could lead to decisions that may not align with the best interests of both the EBR and St. George school boards. Godet stressed the importance of local governance, stating, "At some point, we need to be able to do our own thing here and manage our business."

The financial ramifications of the proposed district were also a focal point of the discussion. Godet noted that the disparity in funding could result in over $10 million flowing from St. George to East Baton Rouge, raising questions about the sustainability of the new district without such financial support. He underscored that any separation must come with an acceptance of the liabilities left behind, stating, "You can't have a divorce decree where you get all the assets and none of the liabilities."

Mr. Russ, another board member, echoed these sentiments, advocating for collaboration with local legislators to ensure that the needs of families across the parish are met. He emphasized the importance of preserving stability for students currently enrolled in EBR schools, particularly those living in St. George. Russ called for clear legislative language that would allow these students to complete their education at their current schools, regardless of the district's future.

The board's discussions also touched on the need for fair distribution of liabilities, a concern that has not been adequately addressed in previous breakaway districts. Both Godet and Russ highlighted the potential impact on resources available for students if East Baton Rouge were left to shoulder the financial burdens alone.

As the meeting concluded, it was clear that the path forward would require careful negotiation and a commitment to ensuring that the educational needs of all students in the region are prioritized. The board's willingness to engage in these discussions reflects a broader commitment to addressing the complexities of educational governance in the face of potential district changes. The outcome of these deliberations will likely shape the future of education in East Baton Rouge and St. George, as both communities navigate the implications of a possible new school district.