In a recent address to the St. Mary Chamber of Commerce, St. Mary Parish Schools Superintendent Dr. Buffy Fegenbush shared her vision for the district. Describing her role as an honor and a dream come true, she emphasized the importance of forging strong relationships between schools, families, and the community.
Dr. Fegenbush said, “I am choosing to lead with a clear vision, creating an environment where students are well-prepared for today’s world.” She highlighted the district’s mission, which is “every student every day together,” and the need to work in partnership with stakeholders to understand and meet the evolving needs of the economy.
The superintendent praised school board members for their dedication to advocating for their districts and the betterment of the system as a whole. She also acknowledged the hard work of St. Mary Parish district staff.
Dr. Fegenbush outlined four key priorities driving their daily work: maintaining health and safety; promoting student learning; enhancing policy and practice; and ensuring clear communications between parents, staff, and communities.
Thanking Mayor Dragna and Morgan City Municipality for their support in improving safety measures at Morgan City Junior High School, Dr. Fegenbush called for continued collaboration in creating a healthy and safe learning environment for all students.
She emphasized the importance of providing students with necessary skills so they are able to succeed in any chosen path: “We want them to know that they are difference makers.”
According to Dr. Fegenbush, the school district has introduced more literacy and numeracy interventions, ensuring the availability of music programs in every elementary school, and planning STEM activities and summer extension programs. Additionally, the schools are working with SLCC credentialing providers and the regional labor market network to develop industry-based offerings in fields such as welding, carpentry, customer service, and healthcare.
Equitable dual enrollment opportunities have been implemented in every high school campus alongside allocating more funding for extracurricular activities to provide students with a well-rounded education. Dr. Fegenbush also mentioned investments made in positions like deans of students and alternative program counselors to support student well-being.
Dr. Fegenbush also called upon local businesses and organizations to help St. Mary Parish Schools by providing internships, work-study programs, mentorships, and guest speakers from various sectors.
Additionally, the superintendent is seeking partnerships with local cultural institutions and artists to sponsor arts and cultural programs in schools while stressing the importance of promoting public education successes.
On a financial note, Dr. Fegenbush acknowledged that strategic planning must address the fact that student population has decreased by 1,750 in the past ten years due to a lack of affordable housing initiatives influencing population growth. Consequently, budgetary considerations must be made in facility maintenance and services offered.
“I steadfastly believe that our school district is the heart of Saint Mary Parish,” concluded Dr. Fegenbush. “Together, we are Saint Mary Parish strong.”