The state Department of Education announces Louisiana’s high school graduation rate is at an all-time high, as 78-percent of the Class of 2015 received their diplomas. Superintendent John White, says that’s almost a 3-percent increase over the previous year, and is the second largest annual gain in 10 years…:
CUT 9 (09) “high expectation”
Louisiana still lags behind the national graduation rate which was 82-percent in 2014.

Officials across the Northshore announced today the beginning of “Operation Angel” – a program whereby a person addicted to drugs can walk into a police station and ask for help instead of being charged with a crime. Covington Police Chief Tim Lentz says it’s time law enforcement changes the way they do business…:
CUT 12 (08) “not a crime”
He says the only requirement of Operation Angel is that an addict ask for help and want to change their life.

Beginning in July, CLECO customers can expect to get a $475 credit on their bills because of the Pineville based company’s sale to foreign investors. Cleco spokesperson Jennifer Cahill says the credit will be applied until it runs out, meaning some customers will not have to pay a utility bill for a couple of months..:
CUT 7 (09) “fifth month”
She says this will benefit both residents and businesses.

Governor John Bel Edwards says FEMA has denied Louisiana’s appeal for a major disaster declaration after severe storms and tornadoes devastated several communities in late February. He says the agency indicated in decision that the impact from the event is not of the severity and magnitude that warrants a major disaster declaration.