Vote NO on SB 25! Preserve the integrity of public education in Louisiana!

I am writing to express my deep concern regarding Senate Bill 25 and to urge you to vote against this proposed constitutional amendment. SB25, which would grant the community of St. George the authority to create an independent school system, poses serious risks to the integrity and equity of public education in Louisiana. Here are several key reasons this bill is not in the best interest of our state: 1. Threatens Educational Equity Creating a separate school district would divert resources from the broader East Baton Rouge Parish School System, potentially undermining the quality of education for students outside of St. George—particularly those in underserved areas. 2. Reinforces Racial and Socioeconomic Segregation The proposed district is likely to intensify existing divides. St. George's demographic profile suggests that a new district could disproportionately serve more affluent, white students, while leaving behind a more diverse and economically challenged student population in the remaining public school system. 3. Imposes Financial Strain Establishing a new district means building a full administrative structure from scratch—at a cost that will likely be borne by taxpayers statewide. With no guarantee of improved outcomes, this is not a fiscally responsible use of public funds. 4. Sets a Dangerous Precedent Allowing St. George to secede and form its own system could encourage other communities to do the same, creating a fragmented educational landscape across Louisiana that complicates statewide planning and governance. 5. Legal and Constitutional Risks Passing a constitutional amendment of this nature opens the door to legal challenges and long-term uncertainty. It undermines the principles of shared public responsibility that our education system is built on. Public education should unite us—not divide us. SB25 risks deepening disparities, weakening our collective investment in all Louisiana students, and sending the wrong message about our values as a state. I respectfully urge you to vote NO on Senate Bill 25. Please prioritize policies that promote equity, unity, and opportunity for all children in Louisiana.