By Community Contributor
Alexandria, LA (5/13/2025) – Certified teachers replaced at Horseshoe Drive Elementary has become a deeply emotional and troubling concern for several parents, educators, and neighbors who have reached out to Community Voice to share what they’ve observed and experienced.
A document currently circulating in the community alleges that the principal at Horseshoe Drive Elementary, appointed for the 2024–2025 school year, removed multiple certified teachers and replaced them with uncertified staff, some of whom reportedly followed her from a previous school. Many residents say this decision has left them questioning whether the best interests of students are being prioritized.
Read the Document
“I don’t understand how we can lose experienced, certified teachers and end up with people who don’t even meet basic qualifications,” one parent shared anonymously. “This school serves mostly Black children. These teachers were role models, not just educators.”
Others point to the dismissal of a veteran lead teacher who had worked in the role for years. According to the shared document, she was replaced by someone who allegedly lacked both certification and leadership experience.
Some teachers believe these changes are not only unfair, but retaliatory. “We’ve been feeling the pressure all year,” said one staff member who asked to remain unnamed. “It’s not about growth or support. It feels targeted.”
Perhaps most concerning for some community members is what they perceive as a pattern. The document suggests that a disproportionate number of the removed certified teachers were Black, echoing past staffing changes under the principal’s previous leadership.
UrbanCast contacted the Rapides Parish School System. All inquiries are directed to the district’s Public Information Officer, who issued this response:
“Thank you for reaching out about Horseshoe Elementary School. At this time, we have received no complaint from the school regarding this matter. Per RPSB administration, there are policies and procedures for employees to address concerns. The effective way is for an employee to report any issue to the school principal or to RPSB district administration. We encourage open communication through the appropriate channels, as this ensures all concerns are addressed.”
No additional details have been released regarding staffing qualifications or hiring plans for the upcoming school year.
Community Voice was created to spotlight stories like this, stories that begin with neighbors raising their voices for the sake of our children and public institutions.
If you have a perspective to share or an experience that deserves attention, you can submit your article to [email protected] for review. Together, we can ensure every voice is heard and that accountability remains a community effort.
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