The Jackson Parish School Board held its regularly scheduled monthly meeting on Monday, February 2nd, with the board adopting a resolution by unanimous decision, ordering and calling for an election to be held on June 27, 2026, in Consolidated School District 1.

Approving the resolution were Mary Saulters, Rick Barlow, Paulette Belton, Gerry Mims (President), and Wade McBride, with Calvin Waggoner and Dennis Clary being absent. 

The election is to authorize the continuation and rededication of a special tax therein, making application to the State Board Commission, and providing for other matters in connection therewith.

NOTE: This is not an election for a new tax to be put in place, but for the renewal of the tax that has been in effect for years. 

RESOLUTION

A resolution ordering and calling a special election to be held in the Consolidated School District No. 1 of the Parish of Jackson, State of Louisiana, to authorize the continuation and rededication of a special tax therein, making application to the State Bond Commission, and providing for other matters in connection therewith.

BE IT RESOLVED by the Parish School Board of the Parish of Jackson, State of Louisiana (the “Governing Authority”), acting as the governing authority of the Consolidated School District No. 1 of the Parish of Jackson, State of Louisiana (the “District”), that:

SECTION 1. Election Call. Subject to the approval of the State Bond Commission, and under the authority conferred by the Constitution of the State of Louisiana of 1974, including Article VIII, Section 13(C) Third thereof, the applicable provisions of the Louisiana Election Code, and other constitutional and statutory authority, a special election is hereby called and ordered to be held in the District on SATURDAY, JUNE 27, 2026, between the hours of seven o’clock (7:00) a.m. and eight o’clock (8:00) p.m., in accordance with the provisions of La. R.S. 18:541, and at the said election there shall be submitted to all registered voters qualified and entitled to vote at the said election under the Constitution and laws of this State and the Constitution of the United States, the following proposition, to-wit:

PROPOSTION

(MILLAGE CONTINUATION & REDEDICATION)

Shall the Consolidated School District No. 1 of the Parish of Jackson, State of Louisiana (the “District”), continue to levy and collect an ad valorem tax of 5.98 mills on all the property subject to taxation within the District (an estimated $1,168,000 reasonably expected at this time to be collected from the levy of the tax for an entire year), for a period of 10 years, beginning with the year 2027 and ending with the year 2036, for the purpose of giving additional support to the public school system in the District, said millage to represent a .52 mills increase (due to reappraisal) over the 5.46 mills tax authorized to be levied through the year 2026 pursuant to an election held on April 9, 2016?

SECTION 2. Publication of Notice of Election – A Notice of Special Election shall be published in the official journal of the District once a week for four consecutive weeks, with the first publication to be made not less than forty-five (45) days nor more than ninety (90) days prior to the date of the election, which Notice shall be substantially in the form attached hereto as “Exhibit A” and incorporated herein by reference the same as if it were set forth herein in full.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, prior to the publication of the Notice of Election, the President of the Governing Authority is authorized and directed to make any amendments to the foregoing proposition that may be required to comply with any state or federal regulatory agencies.

SECTION 3. Canvass – This Governing Authority shall meet at its regular meeting place, the Jackson Parish School Board Office, 315 Pershing Hwy., Jonesboro, Louisiana, on MONDAY, JULY 6, 2026, at 11:00 A.M., and shall then and there in open and public session proceed to examine and canvass the returns and declare the results of the said special election.
 
SECTION 4. Polling Places – The polling places for the precincts in the Parish are hereby designated as the polling places at which to hold the said election, and the Commissioners-in-Charge and Commissioners, respectively, will be the same persons as those designated in accordance with law.

SECTION 5. Election Commissioners; Voting Machines – The officers designated to serve as Commissioners-in-Charge and Commissioners pursuant to Section 4 hereof, or such substitutes therefor as may be selected and designated in accordance with La. R.S. 18:1287, shall hold the said special election as herein provided, and shall make due returns of said election for the meeting of the Governing Authority to be held as provided in Section 3 hereof. All registered voters in the District will be entitled to vote at the special election, and voting machines shall be used.

SECTION 6. Authorization of Officers – The Secretary of the Governing Authority is hereby empowered, authorized and directed to arrange for and to furnish to said election officers in ample time for the holding of said election, the necessary equipment, forms and other paraphernalia essential to the proper holding of said election and the President and/or Secretary of the Governing Authority are further authorized, empowered and directed to take any and all further action required by State and/or Federal law to arrange for the election.

SECTION 7. Furnishing Election Call to Election Officials –  Certified copies of this resolution shall be forwarded to the Secretary of State, the Clerk of Court and Ex-Officio Parish Custodian of Voting Machines of Jackson Parish and the Registrar of Voters of Jackson Parish, as notification of the special election, in order that each may prepare for said election and perform their respective functions as required by law.

SECTION 8. Application to State Bond Commission – Application is made to the State Bond Commission for consent and authority to hold the special election as herein provided, and in the event said election carries, for further consent and authority to continue to levy and collect the special tax provided for therein. A certified copy of this resolution shall be forwarded to the State Bond Commission on behalf of this Governing Authority, together with a letter requesting the prompt consideration and approval of this application.

SECTION 9. Employment of Counsel – This Governing Authority finds and determines that a real necessity exists for the employment of special counsel on matters related to the special election, and accordingly, Foley & Judell, L.L.P., is hereby employed as special counsel for said purpose for a term not exceeding one (1) year from the date of this resolution. The fee to be paid, said special counsel shall be an amount computed at hourly rate based on the Attorney General’s then current Maximum Hourly Fee Schedule, not to exceed $2,000 in the aggregate, together with reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses, and payment for the work herein specified is hereby approved without further action of this Governing Authority as and when invoices are presented. The scope of this legal representation does not involve federal claims.

EXHIBIT “A”

NOTICE OF SPECIAL ELECTION

Pursuant to the provisions of a resolution adopted by the Parish School Board of the Parish of Jackson, State of Louisiana (the “Governing Authority”), acting as the governing authority of the Consolidated School District No. 1 of the Parish of Jackson, State of Louisiana (the “District”), on February 2, 2026, NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a special election will be held within the District on SATURDAY, JUNE 27, 2026, and that at the said election there will be submitted to all registered voters in the District qualified and entitled to vote at the said election under the Constitution and Laws of the State of Louisiana and the Constitution of the United States, the following proposition, to-wit:

PROPOSITION

(MILLAGE CONTINUATION & REDEDICATION)

Shall the Consolidated School District No. 1 of the Parish of Jackson, State of Louisiana (the “District”), continue to levy and collect an ad valorem tax of 5.98 mills on all the property subject to taxation within the District (an estimated $1,168,000 reasonably expected at this time to be collected from the levy of the tax for an entire year), for a period of 10 years, beginning with the year 2027 and ending with the year 2036, for the purpose of giving additional support to the public school system in the District, said millage to represent a .52 mills increase (due to reappraisal) over the 5.46 mills tax authorized to be levied through the year 2026 pursuant to an election held on April 9, 2016?

The said special election will be held at each and every polling place in the Parish, which polls will open at seven o’clock (7:00) a.m. and close at eight o’clock (8:00) p.m., in accordance with the provisions of La. R.S. 18:541.

The polling places at the precincts in the Parish are hereby designated as the polling places at which to hold the said election, and the Commissioners-in-Charge and Commissioners, respectively, shall be those persons designated according to law.

The estimated cost of this election, as determined by the Secretary of State based upon the provisions of Chapter 8-A of Title 18 and actual costs of similar elections, is $39,000.00.

Notice is further given that a portion of the monies collected from the tax described in the Proposition shall be remitted to certain state and statewide retirement systems in the manner required by law.

The said special election will be held in accordance with the applicable provisions of Chapter 5 and Chapter 6-A of Title 18 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes of 1950, as amended, and other constitutional and statutory authority, and the officers appointed to hold the said election, as provided in this Notice of Special Election, or such substitutes therefor as may be selected and designated in accordance with La. R.S. 18:1287, will make due returns thereof to said Governing Authority, and NOTICE IS HEREBY FURTHER GIVEN that the Governing Authority will meet at its regular meeting place, the Jackson Parish School Board Office, 315 Pershing Hwy., Jonesboro, Louisiana, on MONDAY, JULY 6, 2026, at 11:00 A.M., and shall then and there in open and public session proceed to examine and canvass the returns and declare the results of the said special election. All registered voters of the District are entitled to vote at said special election and voting machines will be used. 

The session started with the low quote of $11,818.61 from Dodson Enterprises Inc. being accepted, which will be paid from the General Fund, for the removal and replacement of the Quitman High School Softball Bleacher cover, which was damaged during the recent winter storm.

 

The next item of business found the School Board giving special recognition to the students, teachers, support staff, health professional and Principal of the Year. (See accompanying article)

The CLU’s (Continued Learning Units) earned by Board Members in 2025 were then disclosed as shown. A CLU is a professional development activity that builds capacity for effective, research-based, content-focused teaching and learning that positively impacts student achievement.

2025 CLU’s for Board Members

Paulette Belton – 29.25
Gerry Mims – 26.75
Dennis Clary – 19.25
Wade McBride – 17.25
Mary Saulters – 16.25
Rick Barlow – 9.75
Calvin Waggoner – 1

In accordance, a School Board Member Training Resolution stating that Gerry Mims, Mary Saulters, Paulette Belton, Rick Barlow, Wade McBride, and Dennis Clary have successfully received and exceeded the six hours of required training was adopted by panel members and certified by Jackson Parish School District Superintendent William “Billy” Carter.

Complete wording of the Resolution and Certification can be found in the Classifieds Section of the Jackson Parish Journal under Public Notice – Jackson Parish School Board Meeting Minutes.

The School Board then recognized Emily Smith, ELA Coordinator, who provided information on DIBELS (Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills), and Kristina Sage from Kolder, Slaven & Company, LLC, who presented the audit report.

That led to the payment of the following bills: General Fund, Federal Program, School Food Service, Sales Tax, Special Education, and District Maintenance bills.

The board then approved changing the SLT stipend for Principals and Teachers to match the BESE Effectiveness Ratings as follows: Exemplary & Highly Effective (5.00 – 3.50) – $300.00, Proficient (3.49-2.5) $150.00, to be paid from the General Fund.

Next came the declaration of the following three items as surplus property to be auctioned, recycled or sold.

• (1) 2000 International School Bus, VIN 1HVBBABPXYH287793
• (1) 2002 International School Bus, VIN 1HVBBABM72H512264
• (1) 2001 Mercury Sable (VIN-1MEFM55S71A611904

Additional business included:

Approving payment to Zoho Corporation in the amount of $11,601.00 for Manage Engine Endpoint (Annual Subscription fee for 1,000 endpoints) and User License, to be paid from the General Fund. This is Network Management Software for the District.

Rescinding the following motion made on October 6, 2025:
A motion was made by Paulette Belton, seconded by Rick Barlow, and carried approving payment to United Automation in the amount of $10,864.04 for the installation of a wall mount reader and door integration kit at Weston High School, to be paid from the 2025-2026 LCSS School Safety Grant.

Approve payment to Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Co. in the amount of $20,714.40 for the Amira Student and Teacher Suite License for Grades K-6 at all schools, to be paid from the Direct Student Services fund. (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Co. is a sole-source provider)

Accepting the low bid of $387,092.21 from Uniti Fiber for E-Rate Category 2 – FY 2026-2030, funded with E-Rate at 90% discount and 10% to be paid from the General Fund.

Granting Superintendent Carter permission to enter into a five (5) year contract with Uniti for WAN and Internet Service at a cost of $118,490.00, funded with E-Rate at 90% discount and 10% to be paid from the General Fund.

Approve a reimbursement to District funds from the LCSS School Safety Grant in the amount of $2,611.00 for additional fencing at Weston High School, pending the approval of the modified LCSS budget.

Approving payment to Jackson Parish Recreation Department in the amount of $16,000 for the purchase of a 2020 Ford F150 VIN # 1FTEW1C53LKE09880 to be used by the Maintenance Department, to be paid from Parish Wide District funds.

Prior to the meeting being adjourned, the board approved revisions to the policies shown below. 
• EE – Child Nutrition Program Management
• JGB – School Wellness

 

 

 

 

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After Mother Nature’s deluge of ice across the area put a hiatus on the prep basketball schedule last week, District play begins in earnest on Thursday and Friday for Jonesboro-Hodge, Quitman, Weston, and Saline, with two playing at home and two hitting the road. 

Play starts on Thursday, February 5th, with the Weston girls and boys looking to win their first District 1B contest of the season when they host Doyline. Tip-off for the first game is set for 6:00 pm. The Lady Wolves enter the contest with a 15-10 overall record and 0-1 in 1B play, while the boys teams stand at 10-16 overall and 0-1 in District action.

On Friday, February 6th, the girls and boys from JHHS and Quitman will be on the road with J-H making the long trek to Plain Dealing in District 1-1A play, and QHS will be traveling to Simsboro for a pair of 1B battles. Weston will welcome Georgetown for a non-district home contest, and Saline will host Claiborne Christian out of West Monroe in District 1C play. The girls will open play in all games at 6:00 pm, followed by the boys’ contests. 

The Lady Tigers, now 12-14 overall, look to stay atop 1-1A after winning their first two district contests, while the J-H boys, sitting at 4-20 on the year, look to win their first district game after two losses.

The QHS girls and boys teams have the best records in the area with a 17-7 and 19-4 mark, respectively, with the Quitman boys at #4 in Class B holding the best power ranking among all area teams. They both look to stay atop the District 1B standings after winning their first two games by beating Simsboro on the road.

Weston will play a second game in two nights and only the 10th home game of the year when they play host to Class C Georgetown in a non-district battle with both WHS teams looking for a victory to improve their power ratings.

Saline welcomes Claiborne Christian to the friendly confines for a District 1C battle. With the best power rating among all local girls teams at #8 in Class C, The Lady Bobcats, who stand at 15-13 overall, look to move to 2-0 in District 1C play, while the SHS boys (17-11) look to even their district record at 1-1.

 

Tuesday Tilts! 

 

JHHS 58 Ringgold 41: A 20-4 first-quarter advantage led to the most points scored in 2026 and kept the Lady Tigers atop the 1-1A standings with a 2-0 record. Ringgold fell to 5-16 overall and 0-2 in district play. Four Lady Tigers scored in double digits, led by 18 from Sanaa Tatum and 17 by Samone Mallard. Nesha Johnson and Jalenya Jackson both added 10 points apiece. Syla Malone also chipped in with a second-quarter three-pointer. 

Quitman 46 Homer 28: A team leading and season best 9 boards by Kalishia Hall led Quitman to a decisive 45 to 25 rebound advantage, and a strong defensive effort limited Homer to just 9 field goals on 35 shots (26%). Allie Robertson led the offensive attack with 13 points, followed by Anna Claire Leach posting 12. Kinsley Ponder added 8, Emma Walker finished with four points, and Hallie Kate Pullig tallied three. Breelyn Boone, Taylor Borland, and Sophia Kleibert all chipped in with a basket each. 

Weston 69 Dodson 28: A well-rounded team effort that saw 10 Lady Wolves score points led to Weston’s highest point total of the year. A season-best 14 points by Kate Keiffer, bolstered by a 3 of 4 effort from the 3-point line, led the offensive attack, with Carly Jo Griffin also reaching “double digits” with 10 points. Gracie Gray equaled her season high in points with 9, Rachel Bandy added 8 points and a team high 7 rebounds, while Mallory Malone had her second-best scoring game of the year with 7 points. Addison Faulkner scored 6, Teegan Hall finished with 5, and both Ada Claire Tidwell and DonNia Spence totalled four points each. Carlynn Waters also hit a basket.

Saline 62 Gibsland-Coleman 45: Morgan Cheatwood poured in 18 points to lead the Lady Bobcats to their 5th straight victory and highest point total of the year in Saline’s District 1C opener. G-Coleman fell to 10-12 overall and out of district title contention with a second straight loss. Kassidy Sims chipped in with 10 points, Jalynn Jiles netted 9, and both Tyla Malone and Ally Kate Hillman finished with 8 points each. Lanee Cheatwood scored 7, and Rayaunnah Person made a basket to round out the scoring.

Quitman 71 Homer 50: The Wolverines won their 15th straight game and continued to play “Giant Killer” by winning their 7th of 8 games against schools from a higher classification. Bradyen Martin, who came in with an 18.8 ppg average, exploded for 30 points for the second game in a row, which included a season-best six 3-pointers. Taden Thomas chipped in with 15, and Brayden Smith added 8 for the Wolverines, who shot 50% (28-56 ) from the field. Shane Reed scored 6, Abel Leach finished with 5, and Asher Schultz scored four points. Jack Thomas made a three-pointer as well. 

Weston 72 Dodson 35: Gunner Younse scored 17 points to help the Wolves snap a four-game losing streak and eclipse their win total from a year ago. Ty Henderson and Brody Tidwell also reached “double-digits” in scoring with 11 and 10 points each, while Malachi Harris finished with 9 points. Abram Toms finished with five, Colton Otwell added four,  and LetoCason Conn made a basket, and Leyton Younse sank a free throw.

Ringgold 52 JHHS 47: The Tigers dropped their 20th game of the season and 7th in the last 8 games after Ringgold won the fourth quarter by a 19-10 margin that erased a 37-33 Tiger lead after three quarters. Channing Gray Jr. led JHHS in scoring with 12 points, and both JaQuan Qualls and Tre Burns chipped in with 10 points apiece for the Tigers, who fell to 0-2 in District 1-1A play. Dylan Hayes ended up with 9 points, while King Campbell finished with four, and Kodan Atkins made a basket. 

Gibsland-Coleman 84 Saline 67: In the battle between the #1 and #5 rated teams in Class C, the Bobcats gave up the most points all year to drop their District 1C opener against the Bulldogs, who improved to 21-2 overall and climbed to the district lead with a 2-0 mark. Eli Ferguson led the Bobcats with 24 points. Gavin Dailey added 10, and Jackson Bougues chipped in with 9 points, and both Conner Roberts and Elijah Calloway scored 8 points. Rylan Mauthe and Hayden Jackson rounded out the scoring by both making a fourth-quarter 3-pointer. 

 

Games of Monday, February 2nd

JHHS 59 Weston 47: (Boys) – An 18-4 second quarter advantage lifted JHHS to its first victory at home this season and helped the Tigers snap a six-game losing streak. Four players reached double figures in scoring for J-H, with Dylan Hayes leading the way with 17 points. Both King Campbell and Channing Gray Jr. scored 13, and JaQuan Qualls chipped in with 12 points for the youthful Tigers. Lon’Trevious Burns finished with four points. Malachi Harris led Weston with 9 points, while Leyton Younse scored 7, and both Abram Toms and Brody Tidwell added 6 points each. Gunner Younse and Colton Otwell finished with four points apiece, Aiden Faulkner hit a three-pointer, and Ty Henderson, A.J. Woodard, and Cason Conn all made a basket.

Weston 56 JHHS 34: (Girls) – Leading 10-8, Weston went on a 20-point run to take a 35-20 halftime lead and never looked back in the all Jackson Parish battle. Kate Keiffer, Carly Jo Griffin, and Rachel Bandy, who also had a team-high 11 rebounds, all finished with 12 points each for Weston. Gracie Gray scored 6, Jakayla Fourd finished with four points, and both Teegan Hall and Ada Claire Tidwell tallied 3 points in the contest. Addison Faulkner and Carlynn Waters both made a basket to round out the scoring for the Lady Wolves, who took an incredible 70 shots in the contest.  Sanaa Tatum led JHHS with 13 points, followed by Samone Mallard with 8 and Nesha Johnson with 5 points. Jalenya Jackson finished with four, and both Derryn Osborne and Syla Malone added a basket. 

 

 

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The “best of the best” in the Jackson Parish School District was recognized on Monday, February 2nd by the Jackson Parish School Board who gave awards for the 5th, 8th, and 12th-grade students of the year, the new, elementary, middle school and high school teachers of the year, support staff of the year, health professional of the year and the Principal of the Year.

2025-26 Yearly Award Winners

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The “Boys and Girls of Summer” from Quitman High School (QHS) and Weston High School (WHS) are putting the final touches on the preparations for the upcoming 2026 LHSAA baseball and softball season by participating in Jamborees and scrimmages this Friday and Saturday. 

The action starts at 5:00 pm on Friday, February 6th, when the WHS and QHS softball teams open play against Tioga and Evangel, respectively, in the QHS Umpire Scrimmage being held at the Jackson Parish Recreation Department (JPRD) Sports Complex, while the Weston baseball team plays the host team at the D’Arbonne Woods Jamboree in Farmerville.

Scheduled for 6:00 pm or immediately following the WHS vs D’Arbonne Woods Charter (DWC)baseball game, the Wolves will be in action again against Beekman Charter School (BCS). Meanwhile, back at the JPRD, at 6:45 pm the Quitman and Weston softball teams will play again as WHS takes on Evangel, and host Quitman plays Tioga.

On Saturday, February 7th, it is the Quitman High baseball team’s turn to step on the diamond at the Choudrant Jamboree when they play Family Community Christian School (FCCS) out of Winnsboro at 3:00 pm for their first competitive action of the year. This will be followed by a contest against host Choudrant at 4:15 pm.

Date	Home	Visitor	Location	Time
February 6	Quitman	Evangel	JPRD Field 4	5:00 pm
February 6	Weston	Tioga	JPRD Field 2	5:00 pm
February 6	DWC	Weston	DWC Field	5:00 pm
February 6	Weston	BCS	DWC Field	6:00 pm
February 6	Quitman	Tioga	JPRD Field 4	6:45 pm
February 6	Weston	Evangel	JPRD Field 2	6:45 pm
February 7	Quitman	FCCS	Choudrant	3:00 pm
February 7	Choudrant	Quitman	Choudrant	4:15 pm

Wolves Split Pair at OPHS Scrimmage

Weston High School traveled to Ouachita Parish High School on Monday, February 2nd for a pair of three-inning scrimmages, where they fell to Oak Grove 6-4 in the opener before crushing OPHS 11-0 in the second game.

Oak Grove 6 Weston 4: Despite not getting a hit, the Wolves took advantage of five walks and three errors to score 2 in the first and 2 more in the top of the third to tie the game at 4-4  before Oak Grove scored 2 in their final at bat to take the victory. Beaux Oliver gained two of the walks with K Caskey, Easton Borders and Colton Blundell also reaching on free passes. Bryce Tolar also reached base by getting hit by a pitch. 

Weston 11 OPHS 0: The Wolves’ bats looked to be in mid-season form in the second game as Liam Weaver smacked a triple and Drew Browning hit a double to pace the Weston attack that got 8 hits, 7 walks, and had 2 batters reach base by getting hit by a pitch. Also getting hits were Jase Borders, Liam Weaver, Easton Borders, Beaux Oliver, K Caskey, Corbin Powell, and Kolt Keiffer. On the mound, three pitchers combined to allow only one hit and strike out 7, with Bryce Tolar and Colton Blundell striking out the side in their only inning of work, and Jase Borders K’ing one to close the game out.

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NOTE: On January 25th, Quitman High School alum and Entergy Inc. Lineman, Hunter Alexander, suffered severe injuries to his arms and hands when he was electrocuted while helping restore power to Jackson Parish residents during the recent ice storm. 

Since, Alexander has endured multiple emergency surgeries at the LSU Medical Center in Shreveport, including fasciotomies to relieve deadly pressure in both arms, the removal of damaged tissue on his arms and hands and the placement of wound vacs, which removes pressure over the area of the wound.

Proving that the prayers by family, friends and a host of well wishers have been answered, Alexander is now up and moving around and most importantly has use of his hands and arms.

While the recovery process is coming along, Alexander still has a long way to go and continued prayers for hims and his family are asked for. 

To help with the tremendous costs associated with his hospitalization and recovery efforts and the finanical burden put on his family who has constantly been by Hunters side several fundraising events are taking place including:

GoFundMe account: Donate by clicking here or by going to https://gofund.me/93b055994

Raffle: Take chance to win a UKC registered redbone coon dog puppy. Tickets costs are $25.00 each or 5 for $100.00. Purchases can be made through Venmo: @Katie-Williams-390 or by sending instant message to the Romainjr Real Facebook page.

Prayers For Hunter Fundraiser: Purchase shirts / sweatshirts through from Tommy’s Tees until February 8th by going to PRAYERSFORHUNTER26.ITEMORDERS.COM

 

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If you lost food that you bought with your SNAP benefits because of a flood, fire, power outage, or other disaster, we may be able to replace your SNAP benefits. That is the message stated on a Louisiana  Department of Health (LDH) form regarding food lost in a household misfortune.

To request replacement of SNAP benefits, you must:

1. Report the loss within 10 days of the food loss.
2. Complete the form and submit it to LDH within 10 days after you reported the loss of food.
3. Provide the dollar ($) amount of the food loss. 

To get the form required to submit your loss click here or go to https://ldh.la.gov/assets/SNAP/SNAP38_ENG.pdf

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The month of January was National School Board Member Recognition Month. As a result, the Jackson Parish School District is recognizing the board members who have worked diligently to provide local students with the best education experience possible. Their leadership and countless hours of service help ensure strong schools and bright futures for every child we serve. Being recognized in this edition of the Jackson Parish Journal is Paulette Belton, who has represented District 5 on the Jackson Parish School Board for the past 2 years.

“During her time on the board, Ms. Belton has brought fresh insight, a student-centered mindset, and a strong voice for the community she serves. Her willingness to learn, engage, and serve has added value to board discussions and district decision-making. We appreciate her commitment to supporting our schools.” – Jackson Parish School District

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As Forest Haven Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Center puts the finishing touches on another amazing week, this past one stands out through the celebration of Activity Professionals Week. The activity team is the heartbeat of Forest Haven, bringing joy, purpose, laughter, and meaningful engagement to the residents every single day, and turning ordinary moments into memories.

On behalf of the administration, thanks go to Shona Caskey, Micah Breeding, and Rikki Wheat, for their creativity, their passion, and their unwavering commitment to improving the quality of life for the residents. Their energy fills the halls, their compassion fills the hearts of everyone, and their dedication reminds us why Forest Haven is truly home for those we serve. You are—and always will be—our Forest Haven rock stars!

Happy Activities week!

They bring the joy, they bring the cheer,
They bring the smiles we love to see here.
They knock on doors with voices kind,
And lift the spirits, hearts, and minds.

“Come join us now,” they gently say,
And somehow no one turns away.
We know the work they put each day
For ten o’clock… and two o’clock play.

Arts and crafts and cookies too,
Fun-filled moments, tried and true.
Travel clubs that take us far,
Beyond these walls, just where dreams are

With songs and laughter filling the room,
Entertainers chase away the gloom.
There are three who stand as one,
A caring team till day is done.

Once a year this week appears,
So we celebrate them loud and clear.
We hope they feel the joy they bring,
This Activities Week — and everything.

We don’t own the rights to this music…Forest Haven Nursing Home

In the Thursday, January 29th edition of Gridiron Football Magazine (GFM) – Louisiana High School Preseason Special, over 100 prospects from all over the south were rated and ranked. 

Below is the featured article presented by GFM on Jonesboro-Hodge High School senior Dakota Knox, which was the lead story in the publication. 

Dakota Knox is a 5’11, 175-pound defensive back out of Jonesboro-Hodge High School in Jonesboro, Louisiana. Knox is a member of the Class of 2026 and carries a 3.8 GPA.

During his career, Knox has been a force on both sides of the ball, having 3500 all-purpose yards on offense, and on defense, he had 8 interceptions with 2 pick sixes and about 43 touchdowns.

Knox holds offers from Central Methodist University, Beloit College, and Bethel College and has earned First Team All-District Offensive MVP, First Team All-District Defensive Back, First Team All-District Athlete (ATH), and All-State Honorable Mention honors.

Knox recently competed in a bowl game setting where he welcomed the opportunity to test his skills against higher-level competition. He viewed the experience as a way to measure himself against top talent and appreciated the one-on-one coaching that came with the college-style environment.

Q&A with Dakota Knox

What got you started playing football?

“Ever since I was a little kid, the moment I picked up a football, I knew that’s what I wanted to do. I’ve always wanted to have a career in football.

Why should college coaches recruit you?

“I’m an all-around player. I can play anywhere they need me to play. At my school, I played just about everything on the field. I’m also a leader in the weight room, in class, and when it comes to motivating my teammates. I can also speak to the team and hype them up.”

Why do you love football?

“I’ve loved football since I was a kid. It’s always been something I’m passionate about and something I’ve wanted to pursue seriously.”

What are your strengths, weaknesses, and goals?

“My biggest strengths are being coachable and being a leader. When a coach tells me something, I feel like I can pick it up quickly and apply it. I can always get faster, and my technique can always improve. My goal is to keep getting better and play at the next level.”

What did you like most about the bowl game experience?

“I liked how the coaches talked to you one-on-one.”

What were your takeaways from the bowl game?

“It was a good way to test my skills and see if I could keep up with better competition.”

Do you play any other sports, and how do they help you in football?

“I play baseball and track. In baseball, I play catcher, pitcher, and outfield, and that helps me use my legs and be observant of the field. Track helps my stamina and taught me how to stretch properly.”

Do you have a favorite player or inspiration?

“I like Sean Taylor and Deion Sanders. Deion is my favorite player.”

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The Jackson Parish Ambulance Service District has released its January call report, which showed an increase in responses to traffic accidents and falls, exacerbated by the recent ice storm that plagued the parish. 

Of the 388 total calls received, 276 resulted in transports, 71 were refusals, 27 were standbys/public assists, and 14 were cancelled. 

A further breakdown shows:

Interfacility Transfer: 13.9% 
Interfacility transport (IFT) is the medically supervised movement of patients between hospitals, using specialized ambulances or aircraft (ground or air) for patients needing critical care, ensuring they get timely access to specialized services, diagnostic tests, or surgery.

Traffic Accidents: 11.1% 
Traffic Accidents can be caused by a failure to maintain the vehicle or an impairment, which at times are acute medical impairments. 

Falls: 10.3%
Falls are a common occurrence, but more than usual was responded to due to the ice storm.

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The Jonesboro-Hodge Elementary Faculty and Staff recognize that school counselors are the center of the problem-solving process and help safeguard the mental and emotional well-being of students and parents alike.

“We are proud to celebrate Mrs. Rachelle Mason for her important role within the school system. Her duties include, but are not limited to: removing barriers to academic success, teaching classroom lessons, helping students see things in new ways and develop interests, problem-solving, listening, and, most of all, caring!” – JHES Principal Danielle Copeland

Appreciation is also given to the additional counselors in the Jackson Parish School District. Thank you for all you do for the students of the community.  

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A new year has begun, meaning that new entries are being accepted by the Jackson Parish Hospital for the 2026 1st Quarter Photography Contest. 

The winners for the October-December 2025 contest have been selected soif you submitted an entry, be sure to check your email – you may have great news waiting for you declaring you a winner in the final quarter.

The 2025 4th quarter portion of the photo contest ended up with nearly 200 entries, resulting in JPH selecting two bonus winners to celebrate the strong participation, meaning that a total of six winners have been contacted!

To enter the 2026 January-March contest quarter, simply click on the link below to enter or re-enter your submissions. Remember, it’s a new calendar year, and if your entry is not selected as a winner during the next voting period, your entry will roll over to the next quarter!

To enter go to: https://bit.ly/484jjzM

Thanks for sharing your talent and helping highlight the beauty of our community!

 

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James E. Bradford, President of the Jackson Parish Chapter of the Grambling State University National Alumni Association Inc. (GUNAA), invites all members and any local GSO alum who would like to join, to a meeting of the GUNAA on Thursday, February 5th. The event will take place at 5:30 pm at the Travelers Rest Baptist Church, located at 409 Congo Street in Jonesboro.

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The Jackson Parish Retired Teachers’ Association (JPRTA) held its first meeting of the new year on January 20, 2026, at the Jackson Parish Library.

The session opened with Dr. Mason introducing guest speaker Kim Brunson, Family Nurse Practitioner for Mercy Medical Center, who presented healthy retirement information about foods, vitamins, medications, exercise, clinic visits, and community involvement.

Members thoroughly enjoyed the presentation and participated in a question-and-answer session, followed by Ms. Irene Jones thanking Ms. Brunson for taking the time to speak to the members.

The regular business meeting then resumed with Ms. Irene Jones sharing the 2026 meeting dates and providing information from the state teachers’ retirement association. Next, the members sang “Happy Birthday” to our birthday honorees, Ms. Bettye Jones and Mrs. Valerie Tew. Following the meeting, everyone enjoyed a light snack prepared by Ms. Richards, Ms. Irene Jones, and Mrs. Tew, along with a birthday cake provided by Mrs. Bryan.

If you are a retired educator or retired employee of the Jackson Parish School District and would like to join the JPRTA, contact Ms. Irene Jones, President, at (318) 475-5517. The next meeting is scheduled for March 17, 2026.

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On Friday, January 30th, neighbors came together at the corner of Myrtle & Hill Street to host “Love a Lineman Day.” The event was done to thank the incredible linemen working long, cold hours to restore power after the ice storm

State Farm Office Manager Debra Fordham, who was without power, organized a snack station filled with fruit, cookies, doughnuts, coffee, water, and quick grab-and-go treats for these hardworking crews. Just a small way to say a BIG thank you.

State Farm Agent Shawn Murphy was also on hand, helping with setup and personally thanking the workers keeping our community going.

“These men and women are working around the clock, away from their families, in freezing conditions — and they do it without hesitation. Today was all about showing appreciation where it’s truly deserved,” said Fordham.

QHS BETA Students Deliver Snacks to Entergy Linemen

The Quitman High School BETA students honored Entergy workers by delivering snacks to local linemen and out-of-state crews working day and night to restore power across northern Louisiana.

With thousands of residents without electricity for several days, these workers have shown incredible dedication and sacrifice, often putting their own safety at risk.

As part of the BETA club’s “Thank a Hero: Wired for Success” service-learning project, this small gesture was their way of recognizing the real-life heroes who quite literally keep communities connected and moving forward.

The QHS students wanted to show appreciation to the men and women whose hard work, skill, and commitment ensure our communities stay wired for success—especially in times of need.

Quitman High School is proud of its BETA students for demonstrating leadership, service, and gratitude in action. QHS also has several alumni linemen they are especially proud to call fellow Wolverines. Thank you for all you do and have done for our community. 

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A family’s guide to navigating the biggest decision of a young adult’s life, and why a single Saturday in Natchitoches might hold the answer.

By Cole Gentry, Chief Marketing Officer at Northwestern State University

The kitchen table is often where the panic sets in. It starts with a stack of glossy mailers, each promising the best four years of a student’s life. Then come the spreadsheets, the deadlines, and the quiet, gnawing questions that keep parents awake at 3 a.m. Can we afford this? Will they be safe? Is this the place where my child becomes the person they are meant to be?

For high school seniors, the pressure is immediate. They are standing on the cliff of adulthood, trying to discern their future from a website or a brochure. For families, the challenge is different. You bring the weight of experience. You understand the long-term implications of student loans and the reality of living away from home. You want to protect them, yet you know you must let them lead.

This tension between parental wisdom and student autonomy is natural, but it does not have to be stunned by anxiety. The remedy is not found in more paperwork. It is found in experience. It is found in stepping onto a campus, walking the grounds, and feeling the texture of the community.

That is the philosophy behind Northwestern State University’s N-Side View Day.

On Saturday, February 28, 2026, NSU opens its doors for an event designed to cut through the noise of the college search. It is an invitation to move beyond the statistics and step into the reality of life in Natchitoches.

“Your future is calling and it begins here,” says Emily Miller, Director of Recruiting. “We want students and families to see not just what Northwestern offers, but how it feels to be part of our community.”

Finding the right college is about finding a value match. It is about aligning a student’s ambition with an institution’s culture. This is difficult to do from a distance. You need to see the residence halls. You need to sit in the classrooms. You need to look a professor in the eye and ask them how they will mentor your student.

N-Side View Day provides that access. It transforms the abstract idea of “going to college” into a tangible plan.

The day is structured to address the specific anxieties that families face. Financial stability is often the largest hurdle. Many students, and honestly, many parents, are inexperienced in managing large-scale finances. During the event, financial aid experts break down the process, comparing packages and explaining scholarships in simple terms. It turns a conversation about debt into a strategy for investment.

Academically, the event allows students to explore over 100 degree programs. This is where the student takes the lead. While parents look for security, students look for inspiration. They can connect directly with faculty, asking the questions that matter to them.

“We have designed N-Side View Day to go beyond information. It’s an experience that inspires,” Miller explains. “Families leave with clarity, confidence, and excitement about the future.”

There is also the undeniable influence of place. Natchitoches is Louisiana’s oldest city, a place where history and progress coexist. The campus reflects that balance. It feels grounded. It feels like home. When families visit, they often find that their preconceived notions shift. A parent might have envisioned a different path but seeing their student light up while walking through Alost Hall changes the conversation. It validates that the student knows themselves better than anyone else.

NSU President James T. Genovese views this day as a critical first step in a lifelong relationship. “We are committed to preparing students not just for jobs, but for meaningful lives of impact,” Genovese says. “N-Side View Day is a chance to experience that mission firsthand.”

The event acknowledges that this transition is emotional. Having family support provides a safety net that fosters confidence. By visiting together, you are not making the decision for them; you are standing beside them as they make it.

The day concludes with a classic collegiate experience: a Demon Baseball game. Every attendee receives a free ticket. It is a chance to sit in the stands, eat a hot dog, and watch the B-Stro Boys compete on the diamond. It is a moment to stop worrying about the application process and start enjoying the atmosphere.

“NSU is Louisiana’s best-kept secret,” Miller says. “Once students step on campus, they feel it. They know this is where they belong.”

The labyrinth of college admissions is navigable. It requires patience, honest conversation, and a willingness to explore. It requires a trip to Natchitoches.

Register today for N-Side View Day at www.nsu.la/nsideviewday.

What: N-Side View Day
Where: Northwestern State University, Natchitoches, LA
When: Saturday, February 28, 2026
Includes: Campus tours, academic sessions, financial aid guidance, and Demon Baseball.
Register: www.nsu.la/nsideviewday

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Jonesboro-Hodge Middle School Gym

9:00 am – Warriors vs. Tigers (5-6 b/g division)
9:45 am – Bulls vs. MLC (5-6 b/g division)
10:30 am – Dolphins vs. Mustangs (7-9 girls division)
11:15 am – Sparks vs. Lakers (7-9 girls division)
12:00 pm – Pelicans vs Nets (7-8 boys division)
12:45 pm – Lakers vs. Magic ( 7-8 boys division)

JHHS High School Girls Gym

9:00 am – Pelicans vs. Magic (9-10 boys division)
9:45 am – Thunder vs. Bulls (9-10 boys division)

JHHS High School Boys Gym

9:00 am – Spurs vs. Lakers (13-14 boys division)
9:45 am – Tar Heels vs. Pelicans (13-14 boys division)
10:30 am – Bucks vs. Pelicans (11-12 boys division)
11:15 am – Warriors vs. Lakers (11-12 boys division)
12:00 pm – Bobcats vs. Wings (11-13 girls division)
12:45 pm – Sparks vs. Fever (11-13 girls division)

Youth Basketball League Standings

Age 13-14 Boys Division

TEAM	WINS	LOSSES
Spurs	4	0
Tarheels	3	2
Lakers	1	3
Pelicans	1	4

Age 11-13 Girls Division

TEAM	WINS	LOSSES
Fever	5	0
Wings	3	2
Bobcats	2	3
Sparks	0	5

Age 11-12 Boys Division

TEAM	WINS	LOSSES
Warriors	4	1
Lakers	3	2
Pelicans	3	2
Bucks	0	5

Age 9-10 Boys Division

TEAM	WINS	LOSSES
Thunder	4	1
Bulls	4	1
Magic	2	3
Pelicans	0	5

Age 7-10 Girls Division

TEAM	WINS	LOSSES
Dolphins	4	0
Mustangs	2	2
Lakers	1	3
Sparks	1	3

Age 7-8 Boys Division

TEAM	WINS	LOSSES
Pelicans	3	0
Lakers	3	1
Nets	1	3
Magic	0	3

Age 5-6 Division (Boys & Girls)

TEAM	WINS	LOSSES	TIES
Bulls	3	0	1
Tigers	3	0	1
MLC	1	3	0
Warriors	0	4	0

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J.D. was born in 1924 near Annona, Texas. He was the eldest of seven children. His father, Edgar, named him J.D. after the character in a book. The initials stood for nothing. According to his family, J.D. was “a prankster, a cutup, and a ham. He always loved being with folks who he could cutup with; people who understood his humor, and all his inside jokes.”

When he was about 15 years old, J.D. quit school to help his father run the family farm. When the United States entered World War II, J.D. wanted to do his part, but he felt his duty was to help his father provide for the family.

From 1941 until July 1944, J.D.’s family could tell that his decision was bothering him. J.D.’s sister Joyce remembered that J.D. had “been acting like he had something on his mind and he was real edgy, which wasn’t like him because he was a pretty carefree, happy-go-lucky kind of guy.”

Later that day, July 21, 1944, J.D. enlisted in the Army, where he became a paratrooper. J.D. spent months in heavy combat. In January 1945, he was injured while fighting in the Rhine Valley, the final major barrier between the Allies and Germany. When he learned he was to be awarded the Purple Heart, he refused it. The Army ultimately awarded him the Bronze Star for his combat duty.

Following the war, J.D. returned to farming alongside his father. In December 1946, J.D. married his high school sweetheart and moved to Dallas for better employment opportunities, along with other creature comforts such as electricity and indoor plumbing. J.D. worked at the Dearborn Stove Company followed by Sears, Roebuck & Company. After getting laid off from Sears and a failed stint at farming, J.D. decided to become a police officer. In June 1952, he joined the Dallas Police Department where he was assigned to the Oak Cliff area of Dallas.

J.D. had several notable incidents while a police officer. On April 28, 1956, J.D. and his partner Daniel Smith responded to a call in which a man was threatening to kill his wife with an ice pick. J.D. and Daniel arrived and confronted the man. While trying to subdue the man, Daniel was stabbed in the shoulder, and J.D. in the stomach and right kneecap. Despite their injuries, they arrested the man and received treatment at a nearby hospital.

Five months later, on September 2, 1956, J.D. and Officer Dale Hankins stopped at a bar called Club 80 for a routine check. While there, J.D. recognized a man from a wanted poster and asked him to step outside. The man stood, pulled a pistol, pointed it at J.D.’s face, and pulled the trigger. Snap! J.D. and Dale pulled their pistols, fired multiple shots, and killed the man. Luckily for J.D., the man had failed to take his pistol off safety. J.D. received the Meritorious Award and a commendation for his “outstanding judgment and quick thinking.”

Seven years later, J.D. was on patrol in the Oak Cliff area when a police dispatcher provided the details of a shooting suspect. At about 1:15 p.m., J.D. saw someone who fit the provided description near East 10th and North Patton streets. Based on eyewitness accounts, J.D. spoke to the suspect through his passenger side window briefly and exited his car. The suspect pulled a pistol, shot J.D. four times, and fled the scene. A passerby used J.D.’s own police radio to call for help, but there was nothing anyone could do.

After 11 years as a police officer, J.D. Tippit’s final shift ended at that intersection where a memorial plaque now stands, but it led to the arrest of the man who killed him, the same man who, just 45 minutes earlier, had killed President John F. Kennedy.

 

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To have your Business Services, Job Opportunities, Items for sale, Wanted to Buy, and Public / Legal Notices published – send an email to: jpjjacksonla@gmail.com  or call 318-480-1206. Possible costs are dependent on the content.

SHERIFF’S SALE

PARISH OF JACKSON
STATE OF LOUISIANA

TRAINA DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION
vs 37954
SHEDRICK GREEN III

By virtue of a Writ of Seizure and Sale issued out of the Honorable Second Judicial District Court, Parish of Jackson, State of Louisiana, and to me directed, I have seized and taken into my possession and will offer for sale for cash at the Jackson Parish Sheriff’s Office, Jonesboro, Louisiana, on Wednesday, the 18TH day of March. 2026. Between the hours governing judicial sales, the following property, to wit:

LOT 36, UNIT 10, BOOKER T. WASHINGTON SUBDIVISION, JONESBORO, LA 71251

Seized as the property of the above-named defendant and will be sold to satisfy said Writ and all cost, sale to be made for cash WITHOUT the benefit of appraisal.

BRENT BARNETT, SHERIFF
EX-OFFICIO AUCTIONEER

02/04/26
03/11/26

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

Jackson Parish Library
Job Description
Tier: Level IV
Title: Bookmobile/Outreach Coordinator

Reports to: Level V to VIII
Supervises: Level I to III
Experience: High School Diploma or GED and 6 years of job-related experience.
Pay Rate/Hour: $12.00 – $15.00
Pay Rate/Annual: $22,880.00 – $31,200.00
Full Time

Duties:
• Maintain the bookmobile by daily inspection to ensure the vehicle is in good working order; check tires, fuel, oil, generator, etc., and report any problems to the supervisor; keep the inside of the vehicle clean and tidy.
• Maintain organized records of bookmobile maintenance and inspections.
• Schedule regular maintenance, and/or repair and cleaning of the outside as needed.
• Drive the Bookmobile to scheduled stops, appointments, maintenance/repair sites, special events, etc.
• Plan, prep, and facilitate Bookmobile and Outreach programs.
• Assist with in-house circulation and reference duties when needed.
• Assist with Summer Reading and other Programming planning, coordinate with Supervisors, Youth Librarians, and Programming Librarians.
• Supervise and train staff as needed.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
This position will cross-train with other positions as deemed necessary by management.

Requirements:
• 18 yrs. of age or older.
• Maintain a Chauffeur’s License; able and willing to drive bookmobile.
• Successful completion of a two-month probationary period.
• Able to repeatedly lift 15-25 lbs.
• Be physically able to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Good knowledge of basic library methods, techniques, and procedures.
• Some knowledge of reader interest levels.
• Good ability to maintain library records and carry out library procedures.
• Considerable ability to understand and follow written and oral directions.
• Considerable ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers and the public and to
conduct oneself with tact and courtesy.
• Demonstrated ability to perform essential job duties.
• Ability to work under minimal supervision.

The Library offers benefits, including an excellent retirement plan, vacation, sick leave, and health insurance. Employees may advance to higher positions according to their abilities, qualifications, and based on the needs of the library.

Applications and resumes may be submitted by mail or in person at the Main Branch in Jonesboro, located at:
614 South Polk Avenue
Jonesboro, La 71251

or by email to mainbranch@jacksonparishlib.org

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this position. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all job duties performed by personnel so designated.

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

Jackson Parish Library
Job Description
Tier: Level III
Title: Bookmobile/Outreach Specialist

Reports to: Level IV to VIII
Supervises: None
Experience: High School Diploma or GED and 2 to 3 years of job-related experience.
Pay Rate/Hour: $8.00 – $12.00
Pay Rate/Annual: $16,640.00 – $ 22,880.00
Full Time

Duties:
Maintain the bookmobile by daily inspection to ensure the vehicle is in good working order; check tires, fuel, oil, generator, etc., and report any problems to the supervisor; keep the inside of the vehicle clean and tidy.
Maintain organized records of bookmobile maintenance and inspections.
Schedule regular maintenance and/or repair and cleaning of the outside as needed.
Drive the Bookmobile to scheduled stops, appointments, maintenance/repair sites, special events, etc.
Assist with Bookmobile and Outreach programs.
Assist with in-house circulation and reference duties when needed.
Performs other duties as assigned.
This position will cross-train with other positions as deemed necessary by management.
Requirements:
18 yrs. of age or older.
Maintain a Chauffeur’s License; able and willing to drive a bookmobile.
Successful completion of a two-month probationary period.
Able to repeatedly lift 15-25 lbs.
Be physically able to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation.
Good knowledge of basic library methods, techniques and procedures.
Some knowledge of reader interest levels.
Good ability to maintain library records and carry out library procedures.
Considerable ability to understand and follow written and oral directions.
Considerable ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers and the public and to conduct oneself
with tact and courtesy.
Demonstrated ability to perform essential job duties.
Ability to work under minimal supervision.

The Library offers benefits, including an excellent retirement plan, vacation, sick leave, and health insurance. Employees may advance to higher positions according to their abilities, qualifications, and based on the needs of the library.

Applications and resumes may be submitted by mail or in person at the Main Branch in Jonesboro, located at:
614 South Polk Avenue
Jonesboro, La 71251

or by email to mainbranch@jacksonparishlib.org

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this position. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all job duties performed by personnel so designated.

 

 

Business Services

BUSINESS SERVICES

BUSINESS SERVICES

PUBLIC NOTICE

Jackson Parish School Board Meeting Minutes
February 2, 2026

The Jackson Parish School Board met in a regular scheduled meeting at 11:00 a.m. on February 2, 2026 at Jackson Parish School Board, 315 Pershing Highway, Jonesboro, Louisiana.

The following were present for roll call: Mary Saulters, Rick Barlow, Paulette Belton, Gerry Mims and Wade McBride

Absent: Calvin Waggoner, Dennis Clary

Rick Barlow gave the Invocation.

Wade McBride led in the Pledge of Allegiance.

The meeting was called to order by Mary Saulters.

A motion was made by Wade McBride, seconded by Gerry Mims and carried to approve the minutes from the Regular Scheduled meetings held on January 2, 2026.

A motion was made by Wade McBride, seconded by Gerry Mims and carried to add the following item to the agenda as 4A & 4B:
Consider accepting low quote of $11,818.61 from Dodson Enterprises, Inc. for removal and replacement of Quitman High School Softball Bleacher cover, to be paid from General Fund due to damage during winter storm.

A motion was made by Wade McBride, seconded by Gerry Mims and carried to approve accepting low quote of $11,818l.61 from Dodson Enterprises, Inc. for removal and replacement of Quitman High School Softball Bleacher cover, to be paid from General Fund due to damage during winter storm.

The School Board recognized the following:
• Audrey Lee – 5th Grade Student of the Year
• Amelia Staggs – 8th Grade Student of the Year
• Destiny Smith – 12th Grade Student of the Year
• Brittany Goss – New Teacher of the Year
• Holly Dodson – Elementary Teacher of the Year
• Shelby Chandler – Middle School Teacher of the Year
• Alberta Foster – High School Teacher of the Year
• Craig McBride – Support Staff of the Year
• Jessica Shultz – Health Professional of the Year
• David Huckaby – Principal of the Year

The 2025 CLU’s for Board Members were reviewed:
• Gerry Mims – 26.75
• Paulette Belton – 29.25
• Calvin Waggoner – 1
• Rick Barlow – 9.75
• Mary Saulters – 16.25
• Wade McBride – 17.25
• Dennis Clary – 19.25

School Board Member Training Resolution
WHEREAS, each member of a city and parish school board shall receive a minimum of six hours of training and instruction, as required by ACT 705 of the 2011 Louisiana Legislature; and
WHEREAS, this training and instruction shall consist of school laws of this state, laws governing the powers, duties, and responsibilities of city and parish school boards, educational trends, research and policy; and
WHEREAS, such instruction may be received from an institution of higher education in this state, from instruction sponsored by the State Department of Education, or by an in-service training program conducted by a city or parish school board central office or the Louisiana School Boards Association, or training provided at the national level; and
WHEREAS, each member of a city and parish board shall receive one hour of ethics training, per year, of their tenure as board member;
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that it become public record that Gerry Mims,
Mary Saulters, Paulette Belton, Rick Barlow, Wade McBride and Dennis Clary, members of the Jackson Parish School Board, have successfully received and exceeded the six hours of required training as mandated by the Legislature of Louisiana and all board members have fulfilled the mandate of one hour of ethics training for the year 2026.
CERTIFICATE
I, the undersigned Superintendent of Jackson Parish Schools, do hereby certify that the above and foregoing is a true copy of a resolution adopted at its regular School Board meeting on February 2, 2026

William Carter
Superintendent
Jackson Parish Schools

The School Board recognized Emily Smith, ELA Coordinator, who provided information on DIBELS (Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills)

A motion was made by Gerry Mims, seconded by Paulette Belton and carried to approve adopting a resolution ordering and calling an election to be held on June 27, 2026 in Consolidated School District 1 of the Parish of Jackson, State of Louisiana, to authorize the continuation and rededication of a special tax therein, making application to the State Board Commission, and providing for other matters in connection therewith.

The following resolution was offered by Gerry Mims and seconded by Paulette Belton:

RESOLUTION

A resolution ordering and calling a special election to be held in the Consolidated School District No. 1 of the Parish of Jackson, State of Louisiana, to authorize the continuation and rededication of a special tax therein, making application to the State Bond Commission, and providing for other matters in connection therewith.

BE IT RESOLVED by the Parish School Board of the Parish of Jackson, State of Louisiana (the “Governing Authority”), acting as the governing authority of the Consolidated School District No. 1 of the Parish of Jackson, State of Louisiana (the “District”), that:

SECTION 1. Election Call. Subject to the approval of the State Bond Commission, and under the authority conferred by the Constitution of the State of Louisiana of 1974, including Article VIII, Section 13(C) Third thereof, the applicable provisions of the Louisiana Election Code, and other constitutional and statutory authority, a special election is hereby called and ordered to be held in the District on SATURDAY, JUNE 27, 2026, between the hours of seven o’clock (7:00) a.m. and eight o’clock (8:00) p.m., in accordance with the provisions of La. R.S. 18:541, and at the said election there shall be submitted to all registered voters qualified and entitled to vote at the said election under the Constitution and laws of this State and the Constitution of the United States, the following proposition, to-wit:

PROPOSITION
(MILLAGE CONTINUATION & REDEDICATION)

Shall the Consolidated School District No. 1 of the Parish of Jackson, State of Louisiana (the “District”), continue to levy and collect an ad valorem tax of 5.98 mills on all the property subject to taxation within the District (an estimated $1,168,000 reasonably expected at this time to be collected from the levy of the tax for an entire year), for a period of 10 years, beginning with the year 2027 and ending with the year 2036, for the purpose of giving additional support to the public school system in the District, said millage to represent a .52 mills increase (due to reappraisal) over the 5.46 mills tax authorized to be levied through the year 2026 pursuant to an election held on April 9, 2016?

SECTION 2. Publication of Notice of Election. A Notice of Special Election shall be published in the official journal of the District once a week for four consecutive weeks, with the first publication to be made not less than forty-five (45) days nor more than ninety (90) days prior to the date of the election, which Notice shall be substantially in the form attached hereto as “Exhibit A” and incorporated herein by reference the same as if it were set forth herein in full.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, prior to the publication of the Notice of Election, the President of the Governing Authority is authorized and directed to make any amendments to the foregoing proposition that may be required to comply with any state or federal regulatory agencies.

SECTION 3. Canvass. This Governing Authority shall meet at its regular meeting place, the Jackson Parish School Board Office, 315 Pershing Hwy., Jonesboro, Louisiana, on MONDAY, JULY 6, 2026, at 11:00 A.M., and shall then and there in open and public session proceed to examine and canvass the returns and declare the results of the said special election.

SECTION 4. Polling Places. The polling places for the precincts in the Parish are hereby designated as the polling places at which to hold the said election, and the Commissioners-in-Charge and Commissioners, respectively, will be the same persons as those designated in accordance with law.

SECTION 5. Election Commissioners; Voting Machines. The officers designated to serve as Commissioners-in-Charge and Commissioners pursuant to Section 4 hereof, or such substitutes therefor as may be selected and designated in accordance with La. R.S. 18:1287, shall hold the said special election as herein provided, and shall make due returns of said election for the meeting of the Governing Authority to be held as provided in Section 3 hereof. All registered voters in the District will be entitled to vote at the special election, and voting machines shall be used.

SECTION 6. Authorization of Officers. The Secretary of the Governing Authority is hereby empowered, authorized and directed to arrange for and to furnish to said election officers in ample time for the holding of said election, the necessary equipment, forms and other paraphernalia essential to the proper holding of said election and the President and/or Secretary of the Governing Authority are further authorized, empowered and directed to take any and all further action required by State and/or Federal law to arrange for the election.

SECTION 7. Furnishing Election Call to Election Officials. Certified copies of this resolution shall be forwarded to the Secretary of State, the Clerk of Court and Ex-Officio Parish Custodian of Voting Machines of Jackson Parish and the Registrar of Voters of Jackson Parish, as notification of the special election, in order that each may prepare for said election and perform their respective functions as required by law.

SECTION 8. Application to State Bond Commission. Application is made to the State Bond Commission for consent and authority to hold the special election as herein provided, and in the event said election carries for further consent and authority to continue to levy and collect the special tax provided for therein. A certified copy of this resolution shall be forwarded to the State Bond Commission on behalf of this Governing Authority, together with a letter requesting the prompt consideration and approval of this application.

SECTION 9. Employment of Counsel. This Governing Authority finds and determines that a real necessity exists for the employment of special counsel on matters related to the special election, and accordingly, Foley & Judell, L.L.P., is hereby employed as special counsel for said purpose for a term not exceeding one (1) year from the date of this resolution. The fee to be paid said special counsel shall be an amount computed at hourly rate based on the Attorney General’s then current Maximum Hourly Fee Schedule, not to exceed $2,000 in the aggregate, together with reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses, and payment for the work herein specified is hereby approved without further action of this Governing Authority as and when invoices are presented. The scope of this legal representation does not involve federal claims.

This resolution having been submitted to a vote, the vote thereon was as follows:

YEAS: Mary Saulters, Rick Barlow, Paulette Belton, Wade McBride and Gerry Mims

NAYS: None

ABSENT: Dennis Clary, Calvin Waggoner

And the resolution was declared adopted on this, the 2nd day of February, 2026.

/signature /signature
Secretary President

EXHIBIT “A”

NOTICE OF SPECIAL ELECTION

Pursuant to the provisions of a resolution adopted by the Parish School Board of the Parish of Jackson, State of Louisiana (the “Governing Authority”), acting as the governing authority of the Consolidated School District No. 1 of the Parish of Jackson, State of Louisiana (the “District”), on February 2, 2026, NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a special election will be held within the District on SATURDAY, JUNE 27, 2026, and that at the said election there will be submitted to all registered voters in the District qualified and entitled to vote at the said election under the Constitution and Laws of the State of Louisiana and the Constitution of the United States, the following proposition, to-wit:

PROPOSITION
(MILLAGE CONTINUATION & REDEDICATION)

Shall the Consolidated School District No. 1 of the Parish of Jackson, State of Louisiana (the “District”), continue to levy and collect an ad valorem tax of 5.98 mills on all the property subject to taxation within the District (an estimated $1,168,000 reasonably expected at this time to be collected from the levy of the tax for an entire year), for a period of 10 years, beginning with the year 2027 and ending with the year 2036, for the purpose of giving additional support to the public school system in the District, said millage to represent a .52 mills increase (due to reappraisal) over the 5.46 mills tax authorized to be levied through the year 2026 pursuant to an election held on April 9, 2016?

The said special election will be held at each and every polling place in the Parish, which polls will open at seven o’clock (7:00) a.m. and close at eight o’clock (8:00) p.m., in accordance with the provisions of La. R.S. 18:541.

The polling places at the precincts in the Parish are hereby designated as the polling places at which to hold the said election, and the Commissioners-in-Charge and Commissioners, respectively, shall be those persons designated according to law.

The estimated cost of this election as determined by the Secretary of State based upon the provisions of Chapter 8-A of Title 18 and actual costs of similar elections is $39,000.

Notice is further given that a portion of the monies collected from the tax described in the Proposition shall be remitted to certain state and statewide retirement systems in the manner required by law.

The said special election will be held in accordance with the applicable provisions of Chapter 5 and Chapter 6-A of Title 18 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes of 1950, as amended, and other constitutional and statutory authority, and the officers appointed to hold the said election, as provided in this Notice of Special Election, or such substitutes therefor as may be selected and designated in accordance with La. R.S. 18:1287, will make due returns thereof to said Governing Authority, and NOTICE IS HEREBY FURTHER GIVEN that the Governing Authority will meet at its regular meeting place, the Jackson Parish School Board Office, 315 Pershing Hwy., Jonesboro, Louisiana, on MONDAY, JULY 6, 2026, at 11:00 A.M., and shall then and there in open and public session proceed to examine and canvass the returns and declare the results of the said special election. All registered voters of the District are entitled to vote at said special election and voting machines will be used.

STATE OF LOUISIANA
PARISH OF JACKSON
I, the undersigned Secretary of the Parish School Board of the Parish of Jackson, State of Louisiana (the “Governing Authority”), acting as the governing authority of the Consolidated School District No. 1 of the Parish of Jackson, State of Louisiana (the “District”), do hereby certify that the foregoing pages constitute a true and correct copy of the proceedings taken by the Governing Authority on February 2, 2026, ordering and calling a special election to be held in the Consolidated School District No. 1 of the Parish of Jackson, State of Louisiana, to authorize the continuation and rededication of a special tax therein, making application to the State Bond Commission, and providing other matters in connection therewith.
IN FAITH WHEREOF, witness my official signature at Jonesboro, Louisiana, on this, the 2nd day of February, 2026.

/signature
_________________________________
Secretary

Rick Barlow reported to the Board on the meeting of the Executive Finance Committee held prior to the Board meeting.

A motion was made by Wade McBride, seconded by Gerry Mims and carried to approve for payment the following bills: General Fund, Federal Program, School Food Service, Sales Tax, Special Education and District Maintenance bills.

The School Board recognized Kristina Sage from Kolder, Slaven & Company, LLC who presented the audit report.

A motion was made by Gerry Mims, seconded by Paulette Belton and carried to approve changing the SLT stipend for Principals and Teachers to match the BESE Effectiveness Ratings as follows: Exemplary & Highly Effective (5.00 – 3.50) – $300.00, Proficient (3.49-2.5) $150.00, to be paid from General Fund.

A motion was made by Wade McBride, seconded by Gerry Mims and
carried declaring as surplus the following items:

• (1) 2000 International School Bus, VIN 1HVBBABPXYH287793
• (1) 2002 International School Bus, VIN 1HVBBABM72H512264
• (1) 2001 Mercury Sable (VIN-1MEFM55S71A611904

These items will be auctioned, recycled or sold.

A motion was made by Paulette Belton, seconded by Rick Barlow and carried approving payment to Zoho Corporation in the amount of $11,601.00 for Manage Engine Endpoint (Annual Subscription fee for 1,000 endpoints) and User License, to be paid from General Fund. This is Network Management Software for District.

A motion was made by Wade McBride, seconded by Gerry Mims and carried rescinding the following motion made on October 6, 2025:
A motion was made by Paulette Belton, seconded by Rick Barlow and carried approving payment to United Automation in the amount of $10,864.04 for the installation of a wall mount reader and door integration kit at Weston High School, to be paid from the 2025-2026 LCSS School Safety Grant.

A motion was made by Gerry Mims, seconded by Wade McBride and carried to approve payment to Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Co. in the amount of $20,714.40 for Amira Student and Teacher Suite License for Grades K-6 at all schools, to be paid from Direct Student Services fund. (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Co. is a Sole Source provider)

A motion was made by Paulette Belton, seconded by Rick Barlow and carried accepting low bid of $387,092.21 from Uniti Fiber for E-Rate Category 2 – FY 2026-2030, funded with E-Rate at 90% discount and 10% to be paid from General Fund.

A motion was made by Gerry Mims, seconded by Paulette Belton and carried granting Superintendent Carter permission to enter into a five (5) year contract with Uniti for WAN and Internet Service at a cost of $118,490.00, funded with E-Rate at 90% discount and 10% to be paid from the General Fund.

A motion was made by Paulette Belton, seconded by Rick Barlow and carried to approve a reimbursement to District funds from LCSS School Safety Grant in the amount of $2,611.00 for additional fencing at Weston High School, pending the approval of the modified LCSS budget.

A motion was made by Rick Barlow, seconded by Wade McBride and carried approving payment to Jackson Parish Recreation Department in the amount of $16,000 for the purchase of a 2020 Ford F150 VIN # 1FTEW1C53LKE09880 to be used by the Maintenance Department, to be paid from Parish Wide District funds.

Kristi Bass, Business Manager presented the Financial Report.

Gerry Mims reported to the Board on the meeting of the Policy Committee held prior to the Board meeting.

A motion was made by Gerry Mims, seconded by Rick Barlow and carried approving the following policy revisions:

• EE – Child Nutrition Program Management
• JGB – School Wellness

A motion was made by Rick Barlow, seconded by Gerry Mims and carried to adjourn at 11:40 a.m..

 

Bruce M Bryant
November 27, 1987 – January 20, 2026

Bruce M. Bryant, who was born on November 27, 1987, passed away on January 20, 2026, at the age of 38 years old. After a public viewing was held on Friday, January 30th, his Life Celebration Service was held in the Paradise Funeral Home Chapel in Jonesboro, LA, on January 31, 2026. 

Burnie “Buddie” Watson
March 4, 1950 – January 30, 2026

Funeral services for Burnie “Buddie” Watson will be held at 10:00 AM, Wednesday, February 4, 2026 at Choudrant First Baptist Church with Rev. Gil Arthur officiating. Burial will follow in Roselawn Cemetery in Calhoun, LA under the direction of Owens Memorial Chapel Funeral Home of Ruston, LA.

Burnie Mims Watson, III, affectionately known as Daddy, Pop, Colonel, and Buddie, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, January 30, 2026, at the age of 75. Born on March 4, 1950, Buddie was raised in China, Texas, where his love for faith, family, country, and the cowboy way of life took root.

Buddie was a man of deep and abiding faith. He loved the Lord and served Him faithfully, allowing his faith to guide his life as a husband, father, grandfather, mentor, and friend.

Buddie was a proud former student of Texas A&M University, Class of 1972, where he was a member of the Corps of Cadets. A true Aggie through and through, he was an avid supporter of Texas A&M Football and proudly “bled maroon and white.” Upon graduating from Texas A&M, Buddie served his country honorably in the United States Air Force, retiring in 1997 with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel after 25 years of dedicated service.

After retirement, Buddie continued shaping young lives as an ROTC instructor at Ruston High School from 1997 to 2009, where he also coached the school’s first soccer team for two years. He later served as a substitute teacher at West Ouachita High School. During these years, Buddie impacted countless students—many of whom stayed in touch with him throughout the years, a true testament to the relationships he built and the lives he touched.

Buddie was a strong, loving father, husband, grandfather, and friend. He loved and protected his family with all his heart and was always in the stands, on the sidelines, or at the arena, cheering his grandchildren on in whatever they pursued. He could often be found at the track, shooting range, baseball fields, or rodeo arena, proudly watching them do the things they loved most.

Buddie’s stories were legendary, his humor infectious, and his smile could light up any room. He was witty, patriotic, positive, and always saw the best in people. He never met a stranger, especially if you were an Aggie, served in the military, or had any connection to rodeo life. He had a remarkable memory for names and dates, always had a word of encouragement or advice for anyone who asked, and always looked out for others.

Buddie was preceded in death by his parents, Burnie Mims Watson, Jr. and Bobbie Faye Surles Watson; in-laws, Augden Walden Short and Mildred Porter Short; and dear friends who were family in every sense of the word, the Schroeder brothers, Ronnie and Tommy.

Buddie is survived by his devoted wife, Jane Anne Short Watson; son, Matthew Watson, Sr. and wife Brandie; daughter, Ammie and husband Lane Mckenzie; sister, Rosemary and husband Mike Randolph; his beloved grandchildren, Augden Watson, Corbin Watson, Saige McKenzie, and McKenzie Lovett; and dear friends who were family, the Schroeder brothers, Bill and Donnie.

His family and friends mourn the loss of a hero, a cowboy, a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, and a faithful friend. Perhaps Buddie’s legacy is best captured in the simple, powerful words of his granddaughter: “He was kind, brave, and smart.”

A cowboy rides on, his work here complete.

 

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