Terrebonne Parish School Board selects Corey Butler as next superintendent in 6–3 voice vote

The Terrebonne Parish School Board selected Corey Butler as the district's next superintendent in a 6–3 voice vote during its Jan. 20, 2026, meeting.

The board conducted a district-by-district voice vote after taking a motion to begin the selection process. The clerk announced the result: "We have 6 votes for Mr. Corey Butler. We have 3 votes for Mr. Mark Tarbuck. So the vote is 6–3." The vote followed a search that produced five applicants and included interviews and stakeholder input, board members said.

Butler, who addressed the board after the tally, thanked trustees and supporters and pledged to lead the district with accountability. "I am humbled to be selected as the next leader of this great school district to continue to move it forward," he said, adding that he expects to be held accountable and will focus on investing in students and staff.

Board members who spoke during and after the vote praised the selection process. Matthew Ford said it was an honor to vote for Butler and noted Butler's focus on investing in staff: "The candidates we have were very qualified ... one of the things that stood out was the investment in human capital over programs and things that are fluff." Dr. Mabelle Trahan said she voted in line with constituent input and urged the new superintendent to meet expectations.

The board president thanked those involved in the search and asked trustees to support the incoming superintendent. No further formal action was recorded; the meeting adjourned after brief additional remarks.