Why Superintendent Lamont Cole Remains on the Job
The East Baton Rouge Parish School Board is reviewing its options after Superintendent Lamont Cole was indicted, but board member Patrick Martin says state law prevents the board from immediately terminating him.
Martin explained that Louisiana law allows the board to terminate a superintendent for cause following a conviction, not simply an indictment. The board can suspend Cole by majority vote, but state law and his contract limit how long that suspension can last.
Because the allegations involve matters outside Cole’s work as superintendent, Martin said the board has not suspended him. He also emphasized that the attorney general’s investigation remains ongoing and that the board does not want to interfere with it.
School Board Plans Contract Review
The board plans to increase oversight of school district contracts. Martin said he expects to propose requiring Deputy Superintendent Adam Smith to review and sign off on contracts and report any concerns to the board.
The board also plans to ask its accounting firm to conduct a deeper review of contracts dating back to the implementation of its fiscal transparency policy. The review would include contracts entered into during Cole’s tenure.
Martin said the goal is to protect public funds and ensure the district follows proper procedures.
School Year Off to a Strong Start
Despite the controversy, Martin said the school year has started well. He reported that the district reached 96.8% teacher staffing, up from 93% two years ago.
He also said the district has seen fewer transportation problems compared with previous years.
Martin stressed that the board’s immediate priority remains maintaining stability for students and continuing the progress made across the district. He acknowledged that future developments in the investigation could change the board’s response, but said members will address new information as it becomes available.