Lafayette Parish Schools Superintendent Dr. Pat Cooper and Acadiana Center for the Arts Executive Director Dr. Gerd Wuestemann have found common ground after a contentious battle between the two last week over the loss of a long-time arts program for elementary school students.
Lafayette Parish Superintendent of Schools Dr. Pat Cooper and Acadiana Center for the Arts Executive Director Dr. Gerd Wuestemann have found common ground after a contentious battle between the two last week over the loss of a long-time arts program for elementary school students (click here and here for the backstory).
The two met Thursday, and the following joint statement was issued Friday afternoon:
Yesterday we met to discuss recent disagreements regarding funding for the PACE (Primary Academic Creative Experiences) program for the 2013-2014 school year. The recent reduction in Title 1 funding as a result of the federal sequester have led to many painful cuts across the school system. Going forward, both parties reaffirm their commitment to working towards a collaborative solution regarding the PACE program. LPSS central office staff will look for ways to allocate additional funds within the current budget, which is still awaiting approval by the school board. For its part, the ACA will actively seek additional funding to help supplement the deficit in Title 1 money. Both groups are committed to working together to find a solution that will preserve as much of the PACE program as possible.