By Sonja Bailes, Public Relations Liaison with Jason Rowland, Superintendent
At the heart of every thriving community is a strong public school system. In Bossier Parish, that heartbeat is steady, growing, and powered by a belief in possibility. As students, teachers, and families head into a new academic year, Bossier Parish Schools stand as a vibrant example of what public education can be when it’s guided by vision, nurtured by community, and centered on students.
Superintendent Jason Rowland sees it clearly: “Public education is all things to all people. We are the moral compass, the educational experts, the reason families choose to live where they live. We are the shapers of lives.”
It’s a powerful statement—and in Bossier, it’s not just words. It’s a mission lived daily across classrooms, campuses, and communities.
A Culture of Care and Excellence
“We are pushing all the chips into the center of the table,” says Rowland. “We’re reimagining teaching and learning.”
That reimagining is happening in tangible ways—through cutting-edge programs, expanded opportunities, and a district-wide focus on student success. The goal? To become not just a good school district—but an elite one.
From preschoolers just beginning their educational journeys to high school seniors preparing for college, careers, or military service, Bossier Parish Schools is meeting students where they are—and helping them become who they were meant to be. Sonja Bailes, the district’s long-serving Public Relations Liaison, describes the district’s strength as being rooted in its neighborhood schools. “We tap into every child’s strengths, identify areas for growth, and differentiate instruction based on what best meets their needs and interests,” she explains. “It’s personal. It’s intentional.”
Innovation in Action
Among the most exciting developments is the expansion of the district’s Distance Learning Program, which debuted last year with overwhelming success. It gives students access to courses that may not be available on their home campuses—like American Sign Language, African American History, AP Physics, Film as Literature, and Foundations of Education. This year, the program is expanding to include Computer Science, Financial Literacy, Speech II, and Debate. Over 300 students are already enrolled.
Then there’s the John McConathy Academic Complex (JMAC)—a revitalized campus that will unify special education services while offering new academic programs and broader access to families, including those at Barksdale Air Force Base.
Investing in Students—and Their Future
The numbers speak volumes. The Class of 2025 earned over $24 million in scholarships and TOPS awards. Two students were finalists for Louisiana’s Student of the Year awards. Benton Middle School clinched the title of National 3D Archery Champions—again.
- Other standout achievements include:
- State finalists for Principal and New Teacher of the Year
- Top 15 ranking in ACT scores statewide
- Dozens of National and State Champions in academic and athletic events
But perhaps the most inspiring stories are those of students like Kylie Small, a recent graduate and valedictorian of Haughton High School. Kylie excelled in academics, athletics, and the arts. She was an AP Scholar of Distinction, Student of the Year finalist, and member of the district’s Talented Arts Program (TAP) since first grade. Today, she’s a singer-songwriter signed to a talent agency and heading to Belmont University to major in Music Business. “She’s the next budding star,” says Bailes. “But she’s also one of many.” Over 1,100 students participated in TAP last year—just one of several programs helping students find their path.
Another standout initiative is the Career and Technical Education (CTE) program at the Bossier Parish School for Technology and Innovative Learning. It’s more than “trade school”—it’s a launchpad for future careers. With 27 career pathways ranging from Engineering to Culinary Arts, students can graduate with dual enrollment credits and Industry-Based Certifications (IBCs) that make them workforce-ready. Last year alone, students earned 3,135 IBCs.
Bossier Schools also proudly supports over 3,000 military-connected students, many of whom attend one of the district’s 28 Purple Star Schools—a designation that reflects strong support for military families. With a full-time Military Family Manager and a close partnership with Barksdale AFB, these students receive a soft landing and solid foundation.
Teaching with Heart
Bossier Parish isn’t just building programs—it’s building people. The district has worked intentionally to attract and retain top-tier educators, even amid a national teacher shortage. “Our educators are seen, heard, and supported,” says Bailes. “We offer mentorships for first-year teachers, leadership programs for veterans, and direct access to the superintendent through the Teacher Advisory Council.”
This fall, the district will implement a historic pay increase—$2,500 more per teacher, bringing starting salaries to $52,634 and raising the bar across the board. Support staff will also receive a 4.75% raise, thanks to a school board–driven initiative that did not require a bond. And the support doesn’t stop there. The district offers unique pipelines to the classroom, including the Para to Teacher certification track, a Pre-Educators program for students, and a nationally recognized initiative called Aspiring Misters, which mentors young men toward careers in education.
Anchored in Community
Community support remains the backbone of Bossier’s success. “Parents are a child’s first teacher,” Bailes says. “And our communities reflect the strength of our public schools.” Families are kept informed and engaged through tools like the BPSB mobile app, social media channels, and the bimonthly district podcast On the Record with Bossier Schools, which Rowland launched to promote transparency and two-way communication. There’s even a built-in feature for parents and teachers to connect via the app—a digital bridge between the classroom and home.
Looking Ahead
Growth is a given in Bossier Parish. A recent student population report projects a 5.8% increase in enrollment by 2031—adding nearly 1,300 new students. In response, the district is planning classroom expansions at Benton High School, and continuing work at JMAC to unify special services and make room for the future. But the mission remains the same: to prepare students not just for tests, but for life. “The Bossier experience is real,” says Rowland. “It’s not a facade. It’s about helping each student become a contributing member of society. We want to develop habits of excellence based on their experience with us.”
So, what should families—especially those weighing their educational options—know about Bossier Parish Schools?
Simply put, public education in Bossier offers real opportunity for every child. From dual enrollment and CTE certifications, to advanced academics, the arts, and character-building extracurriculars, the district meets students at every level. More than 92% of all school-age children in Bossier Parish attend public schools. That’s a testament to trust—and to a community that chooses to grow together.
As Horace Mann once said, education is the great equalizer. And here in Bossier, it’s also the great connector—bringing students, families, educators, and communities together with purpose and pride.
Because in Bossier Parish Schools, it’s not just education. It’s family.