Press Release: Ouachita Parish Approves New Land Purchase For New Upper Elementary School Grades

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Ouachita Parish School Board Approves Land Purchase for New Elementary School in District E

Ouachita Parish, LA — During its regular board meeting on Tuesday, the Ouachita Parish School Board approved the purchase of land for the construction of a new elementary school in District E, marking a significant step toward restructuring and strengthening elementary education in the parish.

The Board unanimously agreed to purchase 2.6 acres of land adjacent to property already owned by Ouachita Parish Schools, located next to Richwood Middle School. The new facility will be designed to serve upper elementary grade levels, helping to modernize instructional spaces and improve student outcomes.

In preparation for the new school, the Board also approved a consolidation plan involving three existing elementary campuses:

• Shady Grove Elementary School will serve Pre-Kindergarten through Kindergarten students.

• Robinson Elementary School will serve students in grades 3–5.

• Swayze Elementary School will be consolidated, with its future use to be determined at a later date.

These changes will take effect beginning with the 2026–2027 school year.

School officials noted that the consolidation and new construction are part of a broader strategy to maximize resources, improve learning environments, and ensure long-term sustainability across the district.

Additional details regarding construction timelines, zoning, and campus transitions will be shared as they become available.