LPSS Tax Committee Meeting - Acadiana's Multi-Media News Station

The Lafayette Parish Community Education Plan Committee met for the first time Monday. 45 people are on the committee. They're job is to report on what needs to be done to get parish schools in tip top shape. "I have a daughter in the school system and one to come so," says Youngsville community volunteer.

"Preventative maintenance. They have to keep up that maintenance for the schools in order for them to last," adds Virginia Jones of the Lafayette Black Chamber of Commerce

The Community Education Plan Committee consists of community leaders and local residents - each with a different perspective. James Thomas of Lafayette is a 2012 graduate of Lafayette High. "I hope that I can give my input and give a perspective as to what's going on."

Superintendent Dr. Pat Cooper spoke on the current status of the school system. In essence, Dr. cooper says it's time to act. The population is expected to climb. He says facilities that are busting at the seams will reach a breaking point. "It's not about power and glory. I'm going to give you my best advice. If you don't want to do it, it's not going to hurt me. I'll just retire and I'll be fine. It's all your kids and grandkids," says Cooper.

 Rene Allen

The superintendent says that he wants more than an A plus school district; he wants an A plus community. The plan must be one that the community sees a need for and be willing to pay for. "I showed program and facilities right below $600 million. That is the program we brought to you. Remember, you're not stuck with that."

Renee Allen