Louisiana Tech University has set a record increase in licensing revenue from their trademarked merchandise. It’s a matter of school pride and it helps students directly. Tonya Oaks Smith is Tech’s communications director…:

CUT 07(07)      “…for scholarships.”

Smith says revenues are up by sixty-one percent over last year, and the school’s Amazon store sales are up a whopping eighty-two percent.

Truancy is a growing problem in Louisiana. According to the State Department of Education in the last five years, student absences have risen 22 percent. Truancy is defined as five or more unexcused absences in one semester. Baton Rouge Area BESE member says it was even an issue before the pandemic…:

CUT 09(07)      “…where are they?”

As kids return to the classroom the looming teacher shortage is a top concern. Brooke Thorington has more from the president of the Louisiana Federation of Teachers…:

CUT 01(30)      “…Thorington.”

The Baton Rouge to New Orleans rail receives $20 million in federal funding, but District 6 Congressman Garret Graves says the money would be better spent elsewhere. He feels a new bridge crossing the Mississippi River and upgrades to Highway 30 and LA1 need to be built ASAP.