Vision Statement: Ouachita Parish School System: Committed to Academic Excellence for ALL Students! Mission Statement: Through collaboration among all stakeholders, the Ouachita Parish School System will ensure that all students attain the knowledge and skills needed to be productive citizens. Philosophical Beliefs: Every student will learn, therefore, each student must be provided challenging instructional methods, materials, and experiences in the most appropriate learning environment. A safe learning climate should be provided wherein the student can develop a positive self-concept, self-direction, and a sense of personal responsibility. Every preschooler should be provided equal access to developmentally appropriate learning opportunities which ensure readiness for school. Learning experiences for every student should include the four areas of development: cognitive, social, physical, and emotional. The secondary curriculum should include a wide range of vocational courses, thus preparing the non-college bound student for the workforce. Alternative instructional settings should be provided for students with unique learner needs. Schools, families, businesses, and communities should forge active partnerships to foster the academic success of children and to collaborate in planning for school improvement. Encouragement and support should be provided by all active partners to educators as they continue their professional development.