Welcome to the Education Initiative

By Col. Gregg Athey

“If a man empties his purse into his head, no one can take it from him.” So said one of the nation’s founding fathers, Benjamin Franklin; making a point about education sometime around 1780. Franklin was, still is, known for his wry and witty observances, but I don’t think anyone would argue that even now, 236 years later, the idea that education is worth its weight in gold is a national standard.

What’s less common – and unique among school systems that also serve Army installations -- is the educational partnership that exists between Polk Progress, the Vernon Parish School Board, and Fort Polk. Our partnership, called the Education Initiative, was formed to acknowledge that while Vernon Parish schools are good, they also have challenges. By bringing educators, parents and the community together to identify these challenges and develop action plans, our children will be on the “road to great” with their educational endeavors. My thanks to Polk Progress for leading the way in this initiative which is also supported by educational experts at the local, state and national levels.

The Education Initiative was formed to improve school performance; educate parents about how they can support their child; and to benchmark Vernon Parish schools against not only the national average, but also other schools supporting Army installations. We are making incredible progress.

One of the many great achievements of the Education Initiative is an Action Plan. It has measurable and specific targets to increase academics, aptitude, and opportunities - from early childhood to career-college paths. It is an exciting testament to what we want for our children. Future economic development and a thriving community rests on the shoulders of each citizen who calls Vernon Parish home; whether you are here as a long-time resident or temporarily stationed here.

We are all stakeholders in the future of Fort Polk. The quality of education is a driving force that has high visibility well above the local level. The successes of the Education Initiative to date have made profound impacts on how Fort Polk is viewed nationally and the strategic implications of this hard work are optimistic.

Research overwhelmingly shows that engaged parents and citizens positively affect student achievement and contribute to higher quality education and better performing schools.

I challenge you to stand with me in partnership - to continue to help our education system grow! Your participation matters. Get on board and do your part to make Vernon Parish Schools move from "Good to Great.”

Check out the links on the right to find out more about children's education at Fort Polk.