
The Natchitoches Parish School Board held its annual Back to School Expo at NSU’s Prather Coliseum on July 21. Over 1,500 students and their families came to the event to meet their teachers and principals, learn what resources the district and community offer and to have fun. Sixty-Four booths ranging from the parish’s schools, specialized services the school board offers, Medicaid, as well as local nonprofits and businesses were on hand to educate parents and families about the school district and larger community.
The police department’s McGruff the Crime Dog was there as were mascots for Whataburger and Atmos’ Gus the Gopher. The fire department brought plenty of their Alf the Alligator fire safety coloring books for the youngsters to enjoy. A team from the Alexandria Medicaid Office was on hand with fun prizes for the children and important information for their parents about insurance coverage to keep their young men and women healthy.
The 2025 Back to School Expo was an unqualified success. The attendees were able to meet their child’s principal, some of his or her teachers, learn about the various services offered by the district and state as well as win some really nice prizes. The expo was a wonderful way to prepare for the upcoming school year!


