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District highlighted in national education recovery scorecard; S&P upgrades some local districts
Summary
Superintendent Dr. Grant Eloy told the board the district was one of nine nationwide cited by a Harvard/Stanford education recovery scorecard; staff also announced upgraded S&P bond ratings for some local districts tied to stronger reserves and proactive budgeting.
NATCHITOCHES, La. — Superintendent Dr. Grant Eloy told the Natchitoches Parish School Board Feb. 11 that the district was one of nine nationwide featured in a new education recovery scorecard from researchers associated with Harvard and Stanford.
‘‘We were 1 of only 9 districts that this very prestigious group through Harvard and Stanford highlighted through a case study,’’ Eloy said, noting the recognition followed recent statewide NAEP results and that national media outlets, including NPR and the education outlet Chalkbeat, were planning coverage of the district’s literacy work.
Eloy credited Louisiana Department of Education leadership, teachers and staff for improvements and said the recognition underscores local use of federal relief and professional development funds in ways the district believes positively affected outcomes. He thanked the board and staff for supporting efforts over the last four years.
Separately, staff reported an improved Standard & Poor’s bond rating for some local school districts. Officials said two districts previously rated A- moved to an A rating, and another district moved from B/B+ to A. Staff attributed the upgrade to proactive budgeting, the board’s adoption of a dedicated 10 percent reserve policy and current reserves of roughly 17 percent; S&P cited the district’s fiscal management in the upgrade discussion.
Why it matters: National recognition can amplify recruitment, grant and media attention. A higher S&P rating can lower borrowing costs when the district issues bonds and reflects credit analysts’ views of fiscal stability.
Ending: Eloy urged the board and community to continue engagement and publicize the upcoming town hall and local events tied to the district’s programs. He asked the school board to recognize staff and orchestra program accomplishments presented during the meeting.
