Submitted by the Lafayette Parish School System
LAFAYETTE, LA (January 5, 2025) – In response to a request from Governor Jeff Landry, the Lafayette Parish School System (LPSS) will fly flags at half-staff at all school buildings for the next two school weeks. This gesture honors the victims of the January 1, 2025, attack in New Orleans that claimed the lives of thirteen Americans and one British citizen.
LPSS Superintendent Francis Touchet, Jr., expressed the heartfelt condolences of the school community, stating, “Words cannot convey our sorrow for the tragedy that struck our state and took the lives of 14 people, including Lafayette native Tiger Bech. The thoughts and prayers of every School Board member and employee of LPSS will continue as these families grieve such a heartbreaking loss.”
Although students will not be on campus on Monday due to a scheduled in-service day, all employees will join in a moment of silence at 9:00 a.m., as requested by Landry, to pay tribute to the victims.
Touchet also reaffirmed the school system’s commitment to safety, emphasizing it as one of LPSS’s core values. “We remain resolved in our efforts to provide a secure educational environment for every child entrusted to our care,” he said.
The Lafayette Parish School System stands united with the state and community during this time of mourning and reflection.
