School Community Partner

Avoyelles Parish Schools is proud to honor Red River Farm Supply as our October School Community Partner Spotlight. Their unwavering support of Lafargue Elementary School has strengthened hands-on learning opportunities, fostered positive school culture, and enriched meaningful educational experiences for students.

Investing in Hands-On Learning

The owners of Red River Farm Supply have played a vital role in supporting Lafargue Elementary’s Ag in the Classroom Program, a cornerstone of the school’s experiential learning efforts. Their generous donations of seeds, chicken food, and wire for the school’s new chicken run have allowed students to learn responsibility, agriculture, and sustainability in real-world settings.

Their commitment goes beyond supplies. They’ve sent employees with heavy equipment to unload a 14x20 chicken coop and provided cow panels to give students’ cucumber plants a structure to climb. These contributions help transform classrooms into living labs where students can explore, grow, and thrive.

Supporting School Culture and Events

Red River Farm Supply’s impact also extends to student incentives and school-wide events. They’ve donated ice cream sandwiches to celebrate positive behavior, cold drinks and funds for school fundraisers, and have consistently shown up to support events throughout the year. Their generosity enhances the daily experiences of students and staff, creating moments of joy and community pride.

Strengthening the School - Community Connection

The partnership between Red River Farm Supply and Lafargue Elementary reflects the power of local businesses investing in education. Several employees have personally donated their time and resources, ensuring that gardens are maintained, events run smoothly, and students have the tools they need to succeed. Their involvement shows students firsthand what it looks like to give back to the community.

“This partnership has truly brought our agricultural programs to life and has inspired both students and teachers,” shared Chantelle Hataway, Lafargue's 2025 Teacher of the Year. “With Red River Farm Supply’s help, Lafargue Elementary can provide enriching garden and greenhouse experiences, fundraisers that engage families, and incentives that celebrate student success.”

Cultivating a Brighter Future

Red River Farm Supply’s dedication is a shining example of how strong community partnerships plant seeds for lasting impact. By investing their time, resources, and heart into Lafargue Elementary, they are helping shape not only a thriving school environment but also future generations who understand the value of community and service.

Avoyelles Parish Schools is proud to spotlight Red River Farm Supply for their generosity, dedication, and commitment to ensuring a brighter future for our students, families, and community.

Avoyelles Parish Schools is proud to honor Simmesport R.I.S.E. (Reinvesting in Simmesport’s Expansion) as our September School Community Partner Spotlight. Their ongoing support of Riverside Elementary School has transformed the start of each school year and continues to uplift the broader Simmesport community.

Investing in Academic Success R.I.S.E. ensures that every student at Riverside Elementary receives the school supplies needed for success, along with additional supplies for teachers. They also provide monetary donations to every staff member, empowering educators to purchase classroom resources that directly benefit students. Families deeply appreciate this support, as it eases the financial burden of preparing children for school. “Students and teachers are excited to begin the school year because we have the supplies we need to ensure academic success for ALL students. From day one, we can show our students that we care about them, we want them to reach mastery, and that they matter,” shared Principal Tonenikea D. Wilson.

Celebrating Students and Teachers

Each year, R.I.S.E. sponsors a Back-to-School Bash that honors both students and teachers of Riverside Elementary. These events set a joyful and encouraging tone for the school year, filling the campus with excitement and motivation. They also host special activities, such as the “Jump Into Summer” event, and provide thoughtful gestures, like a special lunch during Teacher Appreciation Week, to remind staff how valued they are.

Strengthening the Community

R.I.S.E.’s impact reaches well beyond school walls. They:

Highlight a local Business of the Month to support economic growth.
Sponsor health fairs and a yearly cancer walk, promoting wellness and awareness.
Honor and recognize influential community members who make a difference.
Provide free activities for youth and adults, helping build stronger family and community connections.

Planting Seeds of Hope

From providing backpacks and supplies to celebrating community members, R.I.S.E. continues to be a shining example of what true partnership looks like.

Principal Wilson expressed it best: “When you pour love into children and support into teachers, you plant seeds of hope that will grow for years to come.”

Avoyelles Parish Schools is proud to spotlight Simmesport R.I.S.E. for its generosity, dedication, and commitment to ensuring a brighter future for our students, families, and community.