Board hears proposals to preserve historic Natchitoches Junior High
Summary
Board members discussed preserving the old Natchitoches Junior High as a historic or community asset; Pastor Harris and others proposed partnerships with nonprofits and state historic funding to stabilize and repurpose the building, while staff noted structural leaks, safety concerns and limited district maintenance funds.
Pastor Harris urged the board on Jan. 13 to begin planning for the future of the old Natchitoches Junior High, describing its historic significance to the Black community and referencing models in Conway, S.C., and Little Rock where former schools were preserved and re‑used as community facilities.
Pastor Harris and other board members suggested exploring a mix of funding sources — grants, park/recreation partnerships, state historic funds and local nonprofit collaboration — to preserve and repurpose the building for community use, reunions and heritage activities. Board members acknowledged that the gymnasium remains in limited use but that the building has leaks and safety issues; staff said the district lacks maintenance funds to fully restore the facility and that the gym and part of the cafeteria are the only spaces being used under facility‑use agreements.
Board members encouraged staff to assemble options, including exploring historic designation, potential grants and partnerships with local nonprofits and park/recreation entities. Several members volunteered to help coordinate community outreach and preservation efforts.
