The Louisiana School for Math, Science, and the Arts (LSMSA) will transition to online instruction for two weeks, beginning Wednesday, March 25, and continuing through Thursday, April 2. There will be no classes on March 23 and 24 to allow students time to return home and prepare for remote learning.
Spring Break will take place as scheduled from Friday, April 3, through Sunday, April 12. The dormitories are currently projected to reopen on Sunday, April 12, so that in-person classes may resume on April 13.
Over the past several days, the school encountered isolated instances of bats in the Living Learning Community (LLC). Each time one was found, it was promptly removed; however, over the last two days, LSMSA observed an increase in sightings in certain areas of the building, prompting them to request a full inspection. While most sections of the LLC have not experienced any activity, out of an abundance of caution and to ensure that exclusion and remediation work can proceed thoroughly and without delay, school officials decided to transition to remote classes.
A humane exclusion process will begin on March 24. During this work, all points of entry will be sealed, and devices will be installed to prevent bats from re‑entering the building. As the exclusion begins, there may be a temporary increase in bat movement around the exterior of the LLC as the animals exit. LSMSA is taking these actions out of caution and in accordance with the professional’s recommendations.
During the LLC closure, LSMSA will conduct thorough cleaning and any necessary environmental remediation in affected areas. The school will also complete all required inspections and clearances to ensure the building is ready for students to return.
LSMSA will remain operational during this period. Emails from LSMSA administration will serve as the primary source of updates to students and parents regarding school operations.
“Please know that our top priority is the safety and well‑being of our students,” said Dr. Steve Horton, LSMSA’s Executive Director and CEO. “We remain equally committed to maintaining the quality of their academic experience while they learn from home. While this situation presents challenges, our community has consistently demonstrated strength and adaptability.”
“We deeply appreciate the understanding, flexibility, and continued support of our families as we work through this situation thoughtfully and with our students’ best interests at heart,” Horton added.
A humane exclusion process will begin on March 24. During this work, all points of entry will be sealed, and devices will be installed to prevent bats from re‑entering the building. As the exclusion begins, there may be a temporary increase in bat movement around the exterior of the LLC as the animals exit. LSMSA is taking these actions out of caution and in accordance with the professional’s recommendations.
During the LLC closure, LSMSA will conduct thorough cleaning and any necessary environmental remediation in affected areas. The school will also complete all required inspections and clearances to ensure the building is ready for students to return.
LSMSA will remain operational during this period. Emails from LSMSA administration will serve as the primary source of updates to students and parents regarding school operations.
“Please know that our top priority is the safety and well‑being of our students,” said Dr. Steve Horton, LSMSA’s Executive Director and CEO. “We remain equally committed to maintaining the quality of their academic experience while they learn from home. While this situation presents challenges, our community has consistently demonstrated strength and adaptability.”
“We deeply appreciate the understanding, flexibility, and continued support of our families as we work through this situation thoughtfully and with our students’ best interests at heart,” Horton added.
