All eyes have been upon the start of the school year for more reasons than one. Goldonna parents and students have all breathed a collective sigh of relief knowing that their school is in fact open for the 24-25 school year.
Principal, Cori Beth Manuel, is beginning her fifth year at Goldonna and no one is more excited than her.
“I am looking forward to great things this school year. We have a different model than we have ever had before and everything is falling into place as smoothly as possible. Our teachers are excellent and as ideas for improvements arise, they don’t sit back and say, ‘hmmm, we should do something to make more efficient and effective’, they quickly take action and make improvement rooted decisions in order to more positively affect our students,” shares Manuel.
Principal Manuel admits the school is basking in community support. The sentiment was echoed by their elected School Board Member as well.
“I can definitely say the start to the 24-25 school year for Goldonna Elementary Junior High School has been a success!,” shared Natchitoches Parish School Board District 7 Member, Chad Fredieu.
He went on to say, “For me it kicked off with an invite to the Teacher/Staff Appreciation Banquet held at Goldonna Baptist Church on July 31st. Pastor, Ben Dupree and his congregation honored all of our teachers and staff with a meal, games and door prizes.”
The K-8 rural school’s staff worked hard all summer to prepare for this year leaving no stone unturned. Fredieu shared, “I have not received one negative call or complaint since the start of school. Trust me, that is a rare comment to be able to make as a board member. I’m hopeful that this school year is the best yet for the staff, students, and the community of Goldonna”.
Mr. Fredieu also wanted to add, “Our high school kids in the area, the positive vibe and turnaround at Lakeview Jr. Sr. High School so far this year is undeniable. I am looking forward to seeing that to continue to improve.”
The Goldonna Wildcats have released their long anticipated Basketball schedule for the 2024-2025 season. Tip off will be held on October 28 as they take on the Provencel Panthers.
Home Games
Goldonna vs Magnet 10/31
Goldonna vs Middle Lab 11/4
Goldonna vs NJH 11/7
Goldonna vs Lakeview 11/11
Open 11/14
Goldonna vs Marthaville 11/18
The Wildcats and Lady Cats will play on the same day. Be sure to check back for game times or possible schedule changes.
“It’s a great year to be a GES Wildcat”, says Principal Manuel. There are countless ways you can support the school.
If you have news to share please email Reba Phelps jreba.phelps@gmail.com