Rep. Domingue wins committee approval to expand Ecole Pontiachen to eighth grade

Representative Domingue asked the House Education Committee on March 24 to extend Ecole Pontiachen from pre‑K through fourth grade to pre‑K through eighth grade, saying the one‑page bill would let the school offer more services to children in the Pontiachen area of Terrebonne Parish.

The sponsor, Representative Domingue, told the panel the school was “thriving” and described the expansion as an opportunity for a community that has faced school closures and relocations. Committee members praised the school’s role preserving Cajun and French heritage and signaled support. Representative Landry moved the bill to be reported favorably; with no objections, the committee approved the motion by voice vote.

The bill presentation and brief member discussion focused on local support for the school and the practical benefit of extending grade levels. Representative Omidy and Representative Taylor both expressed backing, noting community excitement and personal ties to French language instruction. Domingue closed by asking for favorable passage.

Procedurally, HB 350 was reported favorably to the next step in the legislative process. The committee did not take an evidentiary hearing or record additional fiscal details during this session.

The committee’s action means HB 350 moves forward for further consideration; the next procedural stop will depend on the House schedule.