functioning processing unit modelled after those used in industrial plants. “We’re actually building a processing unit that you would see in a plant with water, not chemicals,” Dr. Oertling explains, adding that students will operate it from a control-room environment. BALANCING SAFETY, ARTS, AND ACADEMIC INFRASTRUCTURE The district’s strategy is reinforced through targeted investment guided by long-range planning. “We operate through a board-approved strategic action plan based upon annual needs assessments,” Dr. Oertling says, explaining that funding decisions align with identified priorities. Those include safety and security, arts education, career and technical upgrades, and student and staff well-being. Safety investments range from school resource officers at every campus to advanced security systems, safety vestibules, protective window film, and regular coordinated training with law enforcement agencies. The arts remain a signature focus as well. The district operates a performing arts center and ensures students from Kindergarten through Grade 12 participate in arts experiences that also engage the broader community. WHAT COMES NEXT: LITERACY, UNIVERSAL PRE-K, AND STAYING AHEAD Looking ahead, Dr. Oertling emphasizes that literacy 257 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 07, ISSUE 02 ST. CHARLES PARISH PUBLIC SCHOOLS
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTI5MjAx