By Tiffany Flournoy
The Claiborne Parish School Board has voted to continue its modified school calendar and approved plans to accept bids for lighting improvements at local high school football stadiums.
The measure to continue the four-day school week passed 9-0, with board member William Maddox absent, during the board’s regular monthly meeting Dec. 9.
The district’s 2026-27 calendar is expected to be presented to the board in February for approval in order to utilize this recruiting and retention tool.
Superintendent Chris Brooks said during an executive committee meeting held prior to the regular session that data reviewed recently showed primarily positive feedback from staff and parents regarding the modified calendar.
The board also voted 9-0 on another matter during the regular meeting, approving a motion to grant permission to bid on lighting projects.
Friday night lights at Haynesville High School and Homer High School football fields may soon see improvements, courtesy of a $265,000 grant.
The Claiborne Parish School District has been approved for a 2025 Public Entity Energy Efficiency Grant, which will help upgrade stadium lighting at both schools.
The lighting project for Haynesville is expected to be addressed first, with Homer High School to follow as funds become available.
According to the board, bids must be requested before work can start. This process ensures that Louisiana Public Service Commission-selected efficiency projects are not only energy-efficient but also cost-effective.
The board’s next meeting is slated for January.