Newly elected Allen Parish School Superintendent Brad Soileau is taking to the road for community meetings.

Soileau, who has 23 years of experience in education, will share his vision and discuss the future growth of schools during a series of informal community meetings scheduled next month throughout the district.

“When considering the future of the Allen Parish school district, it is essential that a sharp focus on continued growth in our district through providing quality education is at the forefront of every decision that is to be made,” Soileau said. “This focus must begin for our students prior to their entering our schools and continue throughout their educational experience in Allen Parish.”

Though there are many opportunities to become distracted by the numerous responsibilities within a district, Soileau said it is essential that decisions are always grounded in the best interest of students and the focus never strays from educating students.

Soileau will share his ideas and future vision with parents, employees and community members during the meetings scheduled to be held throughout the school district in August. He will also answer questions and hear from the public on how education should grow in the parish and how to better prepare students for their future.

“These meetings are an opportunity for us to come together, share ideas and discuss the future of our schools,” Soileau said. “I want to give the public an opportunity to talk about what they want and give their input. I also want to be transparent with my vision for the school district.”

The meetings will be held at 6 p.m. at each of the following schools: Monday, Aug. 14 at Elizabeth High School; Tuesday, Aug. 15 at Oakdale High School auditorium (for all Oakdale schools); Thursday, Aug. 17 at Fairview High School; Monday, Aug. 21 at Oberlin High School gym (for all Oberlin schools); Tuesday, Aug. 22 at Kinder High School gym (for all Kinder schools) and Thursday, Aug. 24 for Reeves High School. All the meetings are open to the public.

School board members and principals have also been invited to attend the meetings and meet with the public to discuss things which have been done and things they would like to see done. Score test scores will also be a topic of discussion.

Soileau said he realizes each school will have a specific need and that not all improvements can be made due to time and available funds within the district.

Teachers and administrators will return to school in early August with students returning on Aug. 10.