APSBulletin - March 2026

 

Dr. John Barthelemy, Superintendent

 

SCHOOL BOARD

Honoray Lewis, Ward 1

Lee Meyer Jr, Ward 2

Andrea Barras, Ward 3

Alexis Boutain, Ward 4

Joshua Hebert, Ward 5

Daniel Washington, Ward 6

Bambi Hood, Ward 7

Jessica Ourso, Ward 8

Doris Dugas, Ward 9

CALENDAR

April 1 – School Board Meeting, 6 pm

April 3-10 – Easter Holiday Break, No Classes/Office Closed

April 11 – ACT Test

April 15 – School Board Meeting, 6 pm

May 6 – School Board Meeting, 6 pm

May 8 – Last Day of Class for Seniors

May 15 – AHS Graduation

May 20 – School Board Meeting, 6 pm

May 22 – Last Day of Class

May 25 – Teacher Professional Development Day

Stacy Garrison, principal of Belle Rose Elementary School, works with Master Teacher Darla Giroir about facilitating a Teacher Collaboration meeting that focused on how to better determine student progress toward mastery of academic standards. Continued professional development is key to the progress, and Assumption Parish Schools’ educators are committed to identifying best practices to advance learning in all schools.

Assumption Schools Presents 4th Annual Special Olympics

Assumption Parish Schools recently hosted its 4th Annual Special Olympics at the Assumption High School Mustang Stadium on March 20.

Participants were encouraged to come dressed as their favorite hero, to help “save the day” with lots of fun and laughter. Participants competed in a variety of events, as they were assisted by local high school students, staff and volunteer parents and community leaders.

“Our Annual Special Olympics event is always a great time for our greater community to come together to recognize the bravery and accomplishments of our special needs students. Their actions encourage us all to believe in one another and to challenge ourselves to be our very best,” said Supervisor of Special Education Nellie Brown.

Local School Administrator Named Grant 4 Good Winner

Assumption Parish Schools Director of Elementary Education and Early Childhood Education recently attended a workshop on grant writing where she was named a Grants 4 Good winner.

Rachel Dugas, director of Elementary Education and Early Childhood Education, recently attended the Grants 4 Schools Network workshop in Lake Charles, where she was awarded a grant for the Assumption Parish Schools district.

The Grants 4 Schools program is sponsored by Susi Epperson Consulting, LLC, which customizes training and presentations for school districts, non-profits and other organizations on how to access funding for their educational efforts. The professional development seminars provide tools and resources to assist in grant writing efforts.

Parents Encouraged to Help Students Prepare for Exams

With LEAP, CLEP and ACT tests looming on the horizon for our students, parents can significantly help their child prepare for exams by creating a calm home environment, promoting healthy routines, and offering practical study support rather than just academic pressure.

Here are practical ways parents can support students:

Create a Supportive Environment

  • Establish a Dedicated Study Space: Provide a quiet, well-lit area free from distractions like TV, gaming consoles, or loud noise.

  • Reduce Home Stress: Minimize chores and avoid chaotic situations or arguments during exam weeks.

  • Be a Calm Presence: Your anxiety can transfer to your child, so remain calm and positive to help them stay steady.

  • Limit Distractions: Encourage turning off phones or using focus apps during study times.

  • Engage The Brain

Promote Healthy Routines

  • Prioritize Sleep: Ensure 8–10 hours of sleep for teenagers and 9–11 hours for younger children, as a well-rested brain recalls information better.

  • Nutritious Food: Feed their brain with healthy meals and snacks (e.g., proteins, fruits) rather than relying on high-sugar snacks that cause energy crashes.

  • Encourage Breaks: Remind them to take short, 5-10 minute breaks (like the Pomodoro technique) every hour to prevent burnout.

  • Physical Activity: Encourage exercise or a walk to clear their mind and reduce anxiety.

Provide Practical Study Assistance

  • Build a Study Plan: Help them break down large amounts of material into smaller, manageable chunks, creating a realistic timetable.

  • Active Recall: Encourage active study techniques rather than passive reading, such as using flashcards or taking practice tests.

  • Teach it Back: Ask your child to explain a concept to you; teaching someone else is a highly effective way to solidify knowledge.

  • Organize Materials: Help gather necessary supplies (pencils, calculator, water bottle) the night before to ensure a smooth morning.

Provide Emotional Support & Motivation

  • Focus on Effort, Not Results: Praise their hard work and dedication rather than solely focusing on the final grade.

  • Normalize Nerves: Let them know that feeling anxious is normal and that they can use that energy to focus.

  • Avoid Comparisons: Do not compare their performance with siblings, cousins, or friends.

  • Celebrate the End: Plan a small reward or a fun activity for when they finish their exams.

Venessa Lewis