SMP students begin classes next Tuesday

Summer vacation for St. Martin Parish public school students ends next Tuesday, Aug. 15, when classes for the 2017-18 session resume.
New system employees began an orientation process this past Monday while teachers, instructional aides, administrators and supervisors will be in professional learning sessions Thursday, Friday and Monday.
Superintendent of Schools Dr. Lottie P. Beebe says the new school year offers parish students new opportunities and programs in facilities that have undergone or are scheduled for upgrades.
“The Early Learning Center and St. Martinville Primary are official STEM Academies,” Beebe says, “and will focus on science, technology, engineering and math activities.”
She also pointed out that the “Leader in Me” program that was successfully pioneered at St. Martinville Primary is being expanded to Breaux Bridge Elementary and Jr. High, Catahoula and Teche schools with financial support from Parish Government.
In addition, the Teacher Advancement Program (TAP), a process offering teacher development and support, is being implemented at Breaux Bridge Primary and Elementary, Catahoula and St. Martinville Jr. High.
There will be expanded services for students in health care and nutrition via the Tele-Health Program working in conjunction with the three school-based health centers.
And this year students at all parish schools will be provided breakfast and lunch at no cost through the Community Eligibility Program.
The focus on classroom technology continues says Dr. Beebe, with new Chromebooks to be issued to all parish 7th graders who got used to the devices during their 5th and 6th grade years. Laptop computers are being provided to identified high school classrooms and the district continues to offer a variety of virtual learning courses.
Voter approved bond issues continue to fund a number of capitol improvements and renovations at most school campuses that will continue for the immediate future.
“As our students and employees return to school,” Dr. Beebe says, “I am optimistic that great things will happen this year. It is imperative that all team members work together and I look forward to a successful school year.”