The East Baton Rouge Parish School System is advancing its long-term vision for stronger schools with the rollout of Realignment 2.0. This next phase of the districtwide effort is designed to improve student outcomes, streamline operations and reflect ongoing input from families and educators.
Building on earlier changes, district leaders say the updated plan continues to center on one priority: doing what is best for students while creating a more efficient and supportive learning environment for both students and staff.
Superintendent LaMont Cole emphasized that commitment, noting that every decision tied to the plan is rooted in student success. He said Realignment 2.0 is intended to better align resources, strengthen classroom instruction and ensure students have the time and support they need to thrive.
Continuing the Work
The first phase of realignment introduced several major changes, including the closure of nine schools, repurposing six facilities, modifying start times at six campuses, launching two foundational learning centers and adjusting grade configurations at five schools.
The proposed second phase builds on that progress without closing any schools. Instead, it outlines adjustments to start times at six campuses, the addition of two new foundational learning centers and grade reconfigurations at four schools.
District leaders say these updates were informed by continued conversations with stakeholders. Families and staff raised concerns about early bus pickups before daylight, long transportation routes and the need for stronger support in helping students build foundational academic skills.
Focused on Key Priorities
The district’s approach is guided by three central commitments: improving student achievement, strengthening operations and investing in employees.
Plans to enhance student achievement include expanding access to high-quality academic programs, increasing the number of certified teachers in classrooms and providing additional resources focused on foundational learning.
Operational goals target more efficient transportation, shorter bus routes and upgraded facilities. At the same time, the district is prioritizing professional development to help educators collaborate and create innovative opportunities for students.
Shifting the School Schedule
One of the most noticeable elements of Realignment 2.0 is a proposed change to school start times. Currently, some secondary schools begin as early as 7:10 a.m., while elementary schools start later.
Under the proposed schedule, elementary schools would run from 7:45 a.m. to 2:55 p.m., and middle and high schools would shift to 8:30 a.m. to 3:40 p.m.
Health organizations such as the American Academy of Pediatrics, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American Medical Association support later start times for adolescents. They point to research linking sleep deprivation to challenges in health, well-being and academic performance.
The proposed adjustments would impact several schools, including Belaire High School, Park Forest Middle, Park Forest Elementary, Greenbrier Elementary, La Belle Aire Elementary and Villa del Rey Elementary.
While district leaders recognize that change can be challenging, they maintain the purpose is clear: ensuring every student has the opportunity to succeed. As one student shared during a recent public meeting, the changes may not always be convenient, but they are designed to help students be better prepared each day.