WOODWORTH, La. (UrbanCast: 9/30/2026) — Caroline Dormon Junior High has opened a new classroom wing that doubles the school’s capacity. The expansion adds several classrooms, a music room, health clinic, new restrooms and an enclosed play space.
The Rapides Parish School Board recently celebrated the expansion with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. School leaders also dedicated spaces to two families whose work helped shape the school and district.
The new wing was dedicated to Woodworth Mayor David Butler and his late wife, Linda Butler. Butler has served as Woodworth’s mayor since 1981 and helped bring a school to the community. He has also supported the town and school throughout Woodworth’s growth.
Meanwhile, the school library was dedicated to Dr. Gary Jones and his late wife, Sarah Jones. Jones previously served as superintendent of Rapides Parish Schools. He was named the 2010-2011 Louisiana State School Superintendent of the Year.
Before becoming superintendent, Jones worked as a teacher, football coach, assistant principal and principal. He also served in the U.S. Army National Guard and retired as a brigadier general.
Sarah Jones also devoted her career to education. She taught early childhood, elementary, deaf education, and gifted and talented programs. She later served as a reading instruction coach.
Rapides Parish Schools credited the couple with advancing literacy and enriching learning for generations of children.
“It’s an honor to recognize the people who made this school a reality,” Superintendent Jeff Powell said. He said the new facilities will serve students while also benefiting families and the Woodworth community.
Students, staff, board members, elected officials and community guests attended the ceremony. The event included the unveiling of dedication plaques and tours of the new spaces.
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