Superintendent notifies parish officials of Milesville polling-precinct property sale; board hears mask-guidance update after state lifts mandate

During the superintendent’s report, Dr. Lynett Hookfin told the board that her office had sent an official letter to the St. John the Baptist Parish Registrar of Voters, the Parish President and the Clerk of Court indicating a property used as a Milesville polling precinct is being offered for sale. She said the district will act on direction from those government entities if further action is required.

The board later discussed operational concerns tied to recent filming at West St. John High School; Principal Claude Hill said about 500 people were on campus during the filming and said he would not recommend similar events while students are on campus.

In administrative matters, Dr. Hookfin reported Gov. John Bel Edwards has lifted the statewide mask mandate for K–12 schools and that the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) supports allowing local districts to set mask policies for summer programs and the fall. Board Member Debra Schum asked for guidance that distinguishes between indoor and outdoor settings when the board considers local policy.

No local mask policy was adopted at the May 26 meeting; the update was presented for information and possible future action.