Red River Parish School District Board Meeting
Wednesday, March 11, 2026 @ 3:30 PM

The meeting was opened by Ms. Melinda Hardy, President of the Board with Prayer; Mission Statement
led by Mr. Cleve Miller

Mission Statement: Red River Parish Schools Provide Excellent Education:
Every Child, Every Day, Whatever It Takes!

Finance Committee opened by Mr. Cleve Miller, Chairperson, with the following member(s) present: Ms.
Susan Taylor and Mr. Richard Cannon
Recommends payment of bills as motioned by Ms. Taylor and seconded by Mr. Cannon.
Recommends approving Revised Salary Scale FY 2026 as motioned by Mr. Cannon and seconded by
Ms. Taylor.
Committee received Monthly Report for all Major Funds from Mr. David Jones, Business Manager. No
action was taken.
Adjourned

Matt Vines

The Red River baseball team isn’t in the Division III Non-Select playoff brackets released Tuesday by the LHSAA.

The Bulldogs (13-15) ended the season on a four-game winning streak with a double-header win against Mansfield (19-2 and 15-0 scores) and wins against Saline (8-1) and Ebarb (5-2).

But Red River started that streak more than 1.5 power points out of the 24-team playoff picture, and the Bulldogs couldn’t push their way into the postseason.

This season’s 13 wins easily eclipsed the nine wins in 2025, but a deeper Division III Non-Select prevented the Bulldogs from making its sixth straight postseason appearance.

The Bulldogs last missed the postseason in 2019, winning at least one round in 2024 and 2022 while losing by a single run in 2021 and 2023.

Red River had its best season in program history in 2024, reaching the quarterfinals for the first time.

Red River spring sports won’t totally be shut out of the postseason. The softball team will learn whether they will host a first-round game when the softball playoffs are announced today.

The calendar for the Red River Parish Library is filling up quickly for April and May, so we want to be sure everyone knows what is happening in the upcoming weeks.

In the remaining days of April, we have the following items scheduled:

Wednesday, April 8: Bingo begins at 1:00 for patrons of all ages. There will be prizes and refreshments.

Friday, April 10: Storytime begins at 10:00 for children and their parents and grandparents. Ms. Kala will read books and have activities for all.

Friday, April 10: The workshop on the library website begins at 1:00 for those patrons who want to learn more about the library website and how it can help them. This one hour workshop will be led by our very own librarians.

Wednesday, April 15: The genealogy meeting begins at 10:00 for anyone interested in working on their own genealogy. Mrs. Linda Young and/or Ms. Virginia Webb will share information with group members and will assist those who have questions about materials and how to use those materials.

Friday, April 17: Storytime begins at 10:00 for children and their parents and grandparents. Ms Kala will read books and have activities for all.

Friday, April 17: If someone missed the workshop held on April 10, he or she may attend the workshop on Friday, April 17 about the library website. The one hour workshop will begin at 1:00.

Friday, April 24: Storytime begins at 10:00 for children and their parents and grandparents. Ms. Kala will read books and have activities for all.

Friday, April 24: The workshop about how to use the library website will be held one more time for those who have not yet been able to attend. The one hour workshop will begin at 1:00.

Tuesday, April 21: Today we launch the Louisiana State Park Library Program. A limited number of backpacks and state park passes will be available for check out through our library. This program is a partnership with the Louisiana State Parks and makes it easier for residents to connect with, explore, and appreciate our state’s natural and cultural heritage. If anyone is interested in this program, please contact the library by stopping by or calling 318-932-5614.

Tuesday, April 28: The second AI workshop will be held at 10:00 in the morning with a second session to be held at 2:00. Laptops will be provided. This workshop is for patrons who attended the first AI session earlier this year and will pick up where the first workshop ended. Because space is limited for each session, patrons should stop by or call the library to register for the time of their choice.

In the upcoming days of May, the following activities are scheduled:

Friday, May 1: Storytime will begin at 10:00 for children and their parents and grandparents. Ms. Kala will have books to read and activities for all.

Wednesday, May 13: Bingo will begin at 1:00 for patrons of all ages. Prizes will be given and refreshments will be provided.

Friday, May 15: Storytime will begin at 10:00 for children and their parents and grandparents. Ms. Kala will have books to read and activities for all.

Wednesday, May 20: The genealogy meeting will begin at 10:00 for all interested patrons. Mrs. Linda Young and/or Ms. Virginia Webb will present interesting information pertaining to researching one’s genealogy.

Friday, May 22: Storytime will begin at 10:00 for children and parents and grandparents. Ms. Kala will have books to read and activities for all.

Monday, May 25: The library will be closed on this date in honor of Memorial Day.

Friday, May 29: Storytime will begin at 10:00 for children and parents and grandparents. Ms. Kala will have books to read and activities for all.

Please mark the above dates on your calendars and attend the activities of your choice. Other activities may come up as time progresses.

Shared by Red River Parish Library

                This morning at the dayschool, the fish tank was mysteriously covered with a blanket like it was being punished for bad behavior. If you didn’t know better, you might’ve thought the fish were grounded for talking back to the teacher or refusing to share their crayons. But no—turns out we’ve got ourselves an algae outbreak. A full‑blown, green, slimy, “Swamp Thing” situation. And the only way to get it under control is to keep the light out until the bloom settles down.

               Now, I’m no marine biologist, but I do know this: when the fish tank is greener than a St. Patrick’s Day parade, something’s off.

               And wouldn’t you know it—Jesus has something to say about this.

               Because algae, as it turns out, loves light. Not the good, life‑giving kind of light Jesus talks about. No, algae loves the “I’ve‑been-left-alone-too-long-without-boundaries” kind of light. Give algae too much light, and it throws a party. Give it a little more, and it invites all its cousins. Before long, the fish are filing formal complaints and asking for relocation.

               So the solution?
               Cover the tank.
               Limit the light.
               Let things reset.

               And that’s when it hit me: sometimes God does the same thing with us.

               Not because we’re bad. Not because we’re in trouble. But because something in us has started growing that doesn’t belong there—resentment, worry, pride, comparison, hurry, that one comment someone made in 2009 that we still replay like it’s a classic movie.

               Sometimes the Lord lovingly puts a “cover” over our tank.

               A season of quiet.
               A pause we didn’t choose.
               A slowdown we didn’t schedule.
               A moment where the lights dim and we wonder, “What is happening?”

               But maybe God is simply helping us get rid of the spiritual algae that’s clouding the water.

               Jesus once said, “I am the light of the world,” and He also said, “You are the light of the world.” But He never said, “You need to be under the spotlight all the time.” Sometimes the brightest thing God can do is give us a little shade so the unhealthy stuff stops multiplying.

               Think about it: When was the last time you slowed down long enough to notice what was growing in you? When did you last let God filter the water of your soul?

               The fish tank will be uncovered Thursday morning. The water will clear. The fish will go back to doing whatever fish do (mostly judging us through the glass). But the covering is part of the healing.

               Maybe you’re in a covered‑tank season right now. Maybe God is dimming the lights not to punish you, but to purify you.         Not to hide you, but to help you.

               And when the cover comes off, you’ll shine clearer, brighter, and more beautifully than before.

               Even the fish would say amen to that—if they weren’t so busy swimming in circles.

Melrose, Louisiana – Get ready to experience the magic of handcrafted wonders at the 52nd Annual Melrose Arts & Crafts Festival, taking place on April 18th from 9 am to 5 pm, and April 19th from 10 am to 3 pm. The festival will be held at Melrose on the Cane where attendees can immerse themselves in a vibrant showcase of unique treasures crafted by talented artisans, savor a variety of delicious foods, sip on beer, wine, and other refreshing beverages such as fresh squeezed lemonade. Homemade ice cream returns to the festival this year as a long standing fan favorite as well as iron and wood works for your home and garden. We are also excited to feature local authors throughout the festival, along with live demonstrations that highlight traditional crafts such as basket weaving and quilting. These interactive experiences offer guests a chance to connect with the rich cultural heritage of the area.

Additionally, Randolph “Randy” Deaton will be presenting a special talk on Clementine Hunter on Saturday, April 18 at 11 AM. Guests are encouraged to bring any photos or personal stories they may have of Clementine Hunter, which can be scanned and added to his growing collection.

Tickets for this exciting event can be purchased at: https://givebutter.com/MelroseArtsAndCrafts2026. Attendees will be able to shop for: stunning jewelry, exquisite paintings, savory salsa, intricate woodwork, delectable desserts, and much more. Whether you’re a seasoned art enthusiast or simply looking for something special, there’s something for everyone to discover and cherish at the Melrose Arts & Crafts Festival.

“We’d love for y’all to come out, shop, and support historic Melrose. Take in the views, check out all the vendors, and just enjoy a good day together at the festival. Tours of the Big House and African House will be available- so bring your friends and family and make it a day to remember, ” said Ariel Rachal event organizer.

Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to celebrate over five decades of artistic excellence at the 52nd Annual Melrose Arts & Crafts Festival. Purchase your tickets today and join us for a weekend of creativity, community, and celebration!

For ticket information and event updates, please visit https://givebutter.com/MelroseArtsAndCrafts2026

Media Contact: Ariel Rachal, EmailMelrosePlantation@gmail.com

About the Melrose Arts & Crafts Festival: The Melrose Arts & Crafts Festival is an annual celebration of artistry, creativity, and community spirit. For 52 years, the festival has showcased the talents of local artisans and provided a platform for visitors to discover unique handcrafted treasures. Join us as we celebrate over five decades of artistic excellence and continue to inspire creativity for generations to come.

Red River Parish Public Schools will hold Parent-Teacher Conferences Apr 23 from 4-6pm & Apr 24 from 7:45am until noon. 

Red River High School will have a track meet Fri, Apr 16. Field events begin at 3pm and running events begin at 4:15pm. Admission is $10.

The Coushatta-Red River Chamber of Commerce first Farmers’ Market & Makers’ Fair is Apr 18 on Front Street from 7am until 2pm. No vendor fees. Complete Vendor Registration here. Questions contact Brandon Baxley at 318.332.4159.

Red River Junior High will host a Carnival of Knowledge: Math & Literacy Testing Night Apr 23 from 4-6pm. LEAP testing information will be shared. Snacks, games and lots of fun!

Holley Springs Southern Methodist Church in Martin will celebrate its annual memorial service Sun Apr 26 at the 11am service. A pot luck lunch will follow on the grounds. 

Clara Springs Baptist Camp will host the 38th Annual District Eight Missions & Ministries Adult Day Thru May 14 from 10am until noon with lunch to follow. Blake Brothers in concert. The event is free to adults of all ages. RSVP to 318.352.4090 or office@districteightmissions.com.

A one night revival is scheduled for May 23 at 4pm at the Hall Summit Community Center & Park. Worship will be led by New Light Church & New Light Baptist Church. Speaker is Marvin Leleux. Bring your chairs.

The LSU AgCenter reported providing the local communities with over 8,800 pounds of locally grown tomatoes in the last 30 days!

Reports indicate Louisiana Tech and Conference USA may have reached an agreement that would clear the way for the Bulldogs to officially join the Sun Belt on July 1, but no formal announcement had been made as of now.

USPS to suspend pension contributions, seeks 4-cent stamp price hike.

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife & Fisheries ratifies Declaration of Emergency for Chronic Wasting Disease.

Peggy Anne Hunter Key
June 14, 1954 — April 13, 2026
Funeral services will be held Thursday, April 16, 2026 at 1pm at Liberty Baptist Church in Martin.

Gloria Beth (Huckaby) Ortega
June 1, 1939 – April 10, 2026
Funeral services will be held Friday, April 17, 2026 at 10:30am at Green Acres Baptist Church in Tyler, TX.

Mary “Mamie” Latson
December 16, 1935 – April 11, 2026
The celebration of life will be held Saturday, April 18, 2026, at 1am at New Light Baptist Church in Hall Summit.

Lazarius Maurice Gray
February 19, 2025 – April 9, 2026
Funeral services will be held Saturday, April 18, 2026 at 12pm at St. Savior B.C. in Coushatta.

Lue Demery
August 31, 1942 – April 12, 2026 
Services are pending

If you plan to vote on May 16, now is a good time to make sure your voter registration is current and that your party affiliation is correct. Louisiana will use its new closed party primary format for certain races on that date, which means your party registration can affect which candidate contests you are allowed to vote in.

Under the new system, Democrats vote in Democratic primaries and Republicans vote in Republican primaries for the offices covered by the law. Voters listed as No Party may choose which major party primary ballot they want to use, or they can skip those races and vote only on the constitutional amendments and any other non-closed contests that apply to them. The Secretary of State’s office says the closed primary rules apply to races for U.S. Senate, U.S. House, Louisiana Supreme Court, Public Service Commission, and BESE.

For Red River Parish, the May 16 ballot will include U.S. Senator, U.S. Representative, Public Service Commissioner and Five Constitutional Amendments. The Secretary of State’s sample ballot page is already set up for voters to review their ballot information before election day.

Voters should also know about a party-change issue that affects some registrations. The Louisiana Secretary of State announced that the Independent Party ceased to exist on Aug. 1, 2025, and voters who had been registered with that party were automatically moved to No Party status. That means anyone who was previously listed as Independent should double-check their registration before the election. Red River currently has almost 1,100 No Party voters.

Important deadlines are coming up quickly. According to the Secretary of State, the deadline to register in person, by mail, or through OMV is April 15, while the deadline to register online is April 25. Early voting for the May 16 election runs from May 2 through May 9, excluding Sunday, May 3.

With a new election format in place, checking your registration now could save confusion later. For Red River Parish voters, a quick look at your party affiliation and sample ballot may be one of the most important steps you take before heading to the polls.

A former Red River High School student is making his mark at Grambling State University.

Jemarcus Latson, now a student at Grambling State University, has been elected Sophomore Class Senator, earning the support of his fellow students with a campaign built around leadership, service, and student involvement.

Latson’s campaign slogan, “March Forward Together — Speak Up. Make a Change.”, reflected both his vision for student leadership and his connection to one of Grambling’s most recognized traditions. In addition to serving in student government, Latson is also a member of the world-famed Grambling State University Tiger Marching Band, making the “march” theme in his platform especially fitting.

On his campaign poster, Latson told students he may not be the most well-known candidate, but said he offered real leadership experience, a strong voice, and a heart to serve the students. His platform focused on goals such as representing students fairly, bringing new ideas and positive change, listening to student concerns, and building school spirit and unity through action.

For those back home in Red River Parish, his election is another reason to celebrate one of their own succeeding at the college level. From the classroom to campus leadership and the band field, Latson is continuing to represent his hometown well while making a name for himself at Grambling State.

His election as Sophomore Class Senator shows that his fellow students believe in his vision, and it marks an exciting new chapter for the former Red River High student as he continues to grow as a leader on campus.

Red River Parish has been ranked No. 5 among the Louisiana parishes experiencing the least population growth, according to recently published data from World Population Review. The ranking places Red River Parish among a small group of parishes where population numbers have remained flat or continued to decline rather than grow.

World Population Review estimates Red River Parish’s 2026 population at 7,083, with an annual growth rate of -1.14%. The site also reports the parish has declined by more than 22% since 2010, a sign of the long-term population loss that has affected many rural areas in Louisiana.

Federal census figures point in the same direction. The U.S. Census Bureau lists Red River Parish’s 2020 Census population at 7,620, with a July 1, 2025 estimate of 7,238. That amounts to about a 6% drop since the 2020 count.

For Red River Parish, the ranking reflects a challenge many small rural communities are facing. Fewer residents can mean a smaller workforce, fewer students in local schools, and added pressure on businesses and services that depend on stable population numbers. At the same time, parish leaders and residents continue to point to the strengths that keep people rooted here — a close-knit community, local schools, family ties, and the slower pace of parish life.

Coushatta, the parish seat and largest town in Red River Parish, is also seeing a decline. World Population Review estimates Coushatta’s 2026 population at 1,586, down from 1,747 in 2020.

While rankings like this can raise concern, they also highlight an important conversation about the future of rural Louisiana. For Red River Parish, being listed at No. 5 is more than just a statistic — it is a reminder of the need to keep building opportunities, supporting local business, and creating reasons for families to stay and invest in the parish’s future.

Fearless Thrift is in need of plastic bags, paper bags, newspaper, bubble wrap, packing paper or small boxes. They will gladly take any extras you may have.

Clara Springs Fourth Friday Fish Fry will be held Fri, Apr 25 from 5-7pm. Cost is $15 ($10 for kids 10-17). Dinner includes All you can eat fried fish, coleslaw, french fries, hushpuppies, pinto beans, lemon bread pudding, homemade ice cream and drink. Grand Cane Baptist will host.

According to DQs webpage, until Apr 26 you can buy one Blizzard and get a second for just 99 cents with the Blizzard Double Flip Deal! Only catch, must mobile order on the DQ app. 

This summer the University of New Orleans will officially rejoin the LSU System. UNO will change colors and name to LSU New Orleans when the transition is complete according to reports.

American men (ages 18 to 26) to be automatically registered for the military draft beginning in December.

Perfect Fit Autism Foundation presents the 8th Annual SuperHero Light It Up Blue 2026 Autism Fun Run & Walk Sat Apr 25 at Betty Virginia Park in Shreveport at 8am. It is a family friendly event with games, food & drink. 

Coca-Cola announced they are releasing cans with local symbols from all 50 states, DC & PR. Be on the lookout for Louisiana’s can!

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New board members for the Red River Tourism Commission were announced on social media this week. The Commission, a sub-entity of the Red River Parish Police Jury, emphasizes collaboration, noting that success comes from working together to attract visitors, support local enterprises, and strengthen the local economy for future generations.

Leading the commission is President Mrs. Tangela Maxwell, who is joined by Secretary Mrs. Chandra Wilson. Together, they guide a Board of Directors that includes Mrs. Coronda B. Jones, Mr. Ashaunta Bradley, Mrs. Charlotte Taylor, Mrs. Dana Moseley, Mr. Joshua Terry, Ms. Janelle Givens, and Mr. Brandon Baxley.

The commission’s vision extends beyond tourism alone. By promoting local culture, events, and scenic attractions—from historic landmarks to live entertainment and natural landscapes—the RRTC aims to create lasting economic impact while preserving the identity of the community.

With its guiding principle—“Promoting Growth. Showcasing Culture. Strengthening Community.”—The Red River Tourism Commission is working to play a vital role in shaping the region’s future and ensuring it remains a vibrant place for both residents and visitors alike.

Fans have the opportunity to salute four Red River boys basketball seniors as well as get a glimpse of the future Saturday at the FastBreak ENT All-Star Game at Pineville High School.

Outgoing seniors Demarche Newton, Warren Bowman, Collin Stafford and Malique Smith will play in the All-Star Session II game scheduled for 5:30 p.m.

There are 3-point shootouts for both middle school (1:15 p.m.) and high school (4:30 p.m.) and a high school dunk contest (5 p.m.) as well.

The Riverdale Academy junior varsity boys track team finished as the MAIS District 3-A runners-up in the district meet at Rayville High on Wednesday.

The tennis and golf teams are getting deeper into their seasons as well with competitions at the ULM Tennis Center and the Homer Country Club, respectively.

The Red River baseball posted won thre of its three baseball games this week highlighted by Thursday’s 8-1 win over Saline, but the Bulldogs still lost ground in the Division III Non-Select playoff hunt.

The Bulldogs blasted one-win Mansfield in a doubleheader win – 19-2 and 15-0 – on Tuesday after falling at Ebarb in an 8-3 loss on Monday.

Red River (12-15) dipped to No. 28 in the power rankings, nearly 1.5 power points behind the 24th and final spot. But that number is before the Saline win is accounted for.

The Red River softball team (14-10) knows it will play in the postseason, but home or away remains to be seen.

The Lady Bulldogs slid to No. 18 in the Division III Non-Select power rankings after a split with Lakeview on Tuesday. Red River fell to Class 5A Natchitoches Central on Thursday, 15-0.

Kids ages 2 to 12 will have several chances to fish for free this June as the 2026 Youth Fishing Derbies return to the Kisatchie National Forest. The U.S. Forest Service has scheduled derby events for June 6 at Stuart Lake in Grant Parish, Anderson Pond in Natchitoches Parish, Government Pond in Vernon Parish, and Bombing Range Pond in Winn Parish. A fifth derby is set for June 13 at Valentine Lake in Rapides Parish.

According to the Forest Service events page, each location will have its own start time. Anderson Pond begins at 6:30 a.m., Government Pond and Valentine Lake begin at 7 a.m., and Stuart Lake and Bombing Range Pond start at 8 a.m. Most events wrap up by late morning.

The annual derbies are designed as family-friendly outdoor events that give children a chance to enjoy fishing in a fun setting on national forest lands. The Forest Service lists the Winn Parish event at Bombing Range Pond as the 22nd Annual Frank Clark Youth Fishing Derby, while the other derbies are also part of the forest’s regular slate of youth fishing events.

Families who plan to attend are encouraged to check the official Kisatchie National Forest events page for registration details, exact locations, and contact information for each site. The Forest Service has posted district contacts for every derby in case families need additional information before heading out.

For North Louisiana families looking for a simple summer outing, the derbies offer a chance for children to get outside, cast a line, and enjoy a morning at the water.