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Top Story

This category showcases the lead coverage readers need to know, offering context, clarity, and insight into issues shaping New Orleans and beyond.

First school closure announced as NOLA Public Schools tackles ‘right-sizing’ amid declining enrollment

FirstLine’s Live Oak elementary school will close at the end of the school year. FirstLine took over the school in 2018 but officials say it has struggled with under enrollment.
by Marta Jewson January 3, 2022 Updated May 26, 2022

‘Everybody needs oversight’: Sheriff-elect Susan Hutson talks about her plans for remaking a troubled agency

Hutson will have a lengthy transition period, not taking office until May. It’s not yet clear whether, or to what degree, she will be included in decision-making during the transition.
by Nick Chrastil December 31, 2021 Updated December 31, 2021

More details on NOLA Public Schools officials’ ‘right-sizing’ plan to come in January

Population growth in New Orleans has not kept up with the expansion of charter schools over the past decade. District officials are considering consolidations and possible closures to address the problem.
by Marta Jewson December 29, 2021 Updated May 26, 2022

‘A very Louisiana story:’ apparent state law violation by city election chief may have helped him avoid more serious crime

The potential legal violations arose when Clerk of Criminal Court Arthur Morrell sent endorsement letters to the city’s election commissioners, urging them to vote for Darren Lombard to replace him as clerk.
by Michael Isaac Stein December 22, 2021 Updated December 23, 2021

NOLA Public Schools students 5 and up must be vaccinated by Feb. 1

Cantrell administration to extend proof-of-vaccination requirement for restaurants to include anyone over the age of 5.
by Marta Jewson December 16, 2021 Updated December 17, 2021

Louisiana policy intended to reform solitary confinement still leaves people in indefinite lockdown

Officials say the total number of people in restrictive housing has gone down, but the state doesn’t keep enough data to substantiate that claim.
by Eli Cahan and Nick Chrastil December 15, 2021 Updated December 15, 2021

City dismisses contract-fixing allegations in ‘smart cities’ project

Emails show that city consulted with a ‘pro bono’ consultant connected to the winning bidder weeks before advertisements for bids went out.
by Michael Isaac Stein December 14, 2021 Updated May 26, 2022

New sheriff in town

In a major upset, Hutson defeats 17-year incumbent Sheriff Marlin Gusman.
by Nick Chrastil December 11, 2021 Updated December 12, 2021

Years-long dispute over jail size a key issue in race for sheriff

Incumbent Sheriff Marlin Gusman has taken credit for reducing the jail’s footprint and population. But his record shows him frequently working to increase the size of the jail.
by Nick Chrastil December 8, 2021 Updated December 9, 2021

COVID-19 cases steady in schools as state lawmakers reject requiring COVID-19 vaccine for Louisiana students

Gov. John Bel Edwards is likely to override their 13-2 vote rejecting adding the shot to the list.
by Marta Jewson December 6, 2021 Updated December 6, 2021

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