NATCHITOCHES, La. - A proposal to reduce the number of Natchitoches Parish School Board members from the current 11 to either nine or seven was brought before the board during its committee meeting on Tuesday.

The discussion, led by Board President Reba Phelps, focused on cost savings, board efficiency and legal considerations, with several members voicing both support and concerns.

Phelps opened the discussion with prepared remarks, calling it a “truly unique and historic opportunity” for the board to lead by example during a period of widespread cuts across the district.

She cited the closure or relocation of multiple schools, the loss of International Paper as a major taxpayer, and staff reductions — 14% at the central office and 7% district-wide — as part of a challenging year for N

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