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The South Central Louisiana Association of School Superintendents (SCLASS) held its 2025 legislative breakfast on Tuesday at the Professional Learning Center in Luling, hosted by St. Charles Parish Public Schools.

The nonpartisan breakfast roundtable, held annually, promotes critical discussion on the future of public education in Louisiana. It fosters open dialogue and collaboration between policymakers and regional school officials.

Superintendents, school board members, and staff from 11 parishes—Ascension, Assumption, Jefferson, Lafourche, Orleans, Plaquemines, St. Bernard, St. Charles, St. John the Baptist, St. James, and Terrebonne—joined Dr. Janet Pope, Executive Director of the Louisiana School Boards Association.

Representatives Beryl Amedée, Beth Billings, Jacob Braud, Joseph Orgeron, Sylvia Taylor, and Senators Greg Miller and Ed Price were among the legislators in attendance.

The breakfast opened with a welcome and introductions led by Dr. John Barthelemy, President of SCLASS and Superintendent of Assumption Parish. Dr. Ken Oertling, Superintendent of St. Charles Parish Public Schools, addressed the legislators before inviting discussion on pressing educational topics.

The discussion highlighted several key topics, including mandated state testing, funding, early childhood education, accountability, the national teacher shortage, and the future of the U.S. Department of Education. 

A primary concern was the excessive state-mandated testing compared to other states, provoking strong reactions from education leaders.

“The pendulum for testing has swung off the clock,” said Michelle Lindner, Plaquemines Parish School Board Member and J.B. Martin Middle School Teacher, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach to student assessment.

SCLASS leaders appreciated the legislators’ willingness to listen and engage in meaningful dialogue about these critical issues.

“Events like this provide an essential opportunity for legislators and education leaders to work together in shaping policies that support our students, educators, and communities,” said Dr. Oertling.

As Louisiana’s public schools face ongoing challenges, SCLASS remains dedicated to advocating for policies and resources that promote student success and enhance the state’s education system.