April 30, 2026

www.tangischools.org


Be Respectful. Be Compassionate. Be Great.

"Challenge Accepted 2025-2026"

TESTING AND ASSESSMENTS

Tips for LEAP 2025


As we work our way through our LEAP 2025 testing season, we want to ensure that our students remain confident, prepared, and supported. These assessments are an important way for us to measure student growth and ensure we are meeting their educational needs. Make sure to schedule all important appointments outside of testing days, get lots of rest, and come to school ready to give it your best!


All students will take the LEAP 2025 on a computer. Familiarize yourself with these built-in Online Testing Tools to improve your efficiency.


Take a Practice Test


Online Testing Resources


Tips for Students


Breathe and relax.

Take a moment to focus on your breathing and try to relax. Stay positive and push negative thoughts from your mind. Repeat these steps if you find yourself getting frustrated or over-anxious during the test. Remember, just try your best.


Focus on Your Strengths  
Don’t just think about challenges—remember what you’re good at!


You’ve Practiced for This 
You’ve done multiple "test runs" and technology checks to ensure you’re prepared.


  • Look over the entire test first.
    Review all the passages and the number of questions before starting. This will give you a general idea of how long it will take to complete the test. Don’t rush, but as you work through each section, pay attention to how much time you have left so you can pace yourself appropriately.


  • Read each question carefully. 
    Think through each part of the question, and think about similar questions from class. Look for clues within the wording of the question itself. Sometimes, paraphrasing the question may help. Always reread difficult questions and highlight important information.


  • Consider all the answers in multiple choice questions.
    Be sure to read through all of the available answers before making your choice, even if you think you know the right answers. Use the cross-off feature to eliminate choices.


  • Be thorough in constructed responses and essay questions.
    Answer all parts of the prompt and be sure to include evidence as needed. Before moving on, proofread to make sure your responses make sense, and check spelling and grammar.


  • Don’t get stuck on the tough ones.
    Don’t spend too much time on these questions.
    
    Flag the question and go back to it later. There may be questions in another section of the test that could jog your memory or provide more clues.


  • Pacing 
    Don’t worry if others finish before you. "Testing isn't a race; accuracy is more important than speed."


  • Use extra time wisely.
    Use any leftover time to review all of your answers.
    
    Check for careless mistakes and review any questions you flagged or skipped. Reread questions to ensure you haven’t misunderstood or misread anything.


Testing Dates

LEAP 3-8: April 1 - May 15, 2026

LEAP HS: April 1 - May 15, 2026


Please contact your child's school for specific testing dates. Follow your school on social media for testing calendars and important updates.


ATTENDANCE

Staying Focused: Finish Strong!


As we approach the final stretch of the school season, remember that your focus is your greatest asset. While it is natural for fatigue to set in as testing time arrives, please stay the course and keep your eyes on the finish line.


These tests are more than just assessments; they are your opportunity to demonstrate the dedication, hard work, and growth you have cultivated throughout the year. Give every single question your absolute best effort, from the very start to the final submission.


We are incredibly proud of your perseverance, so take a deep breath, trust your preparation, and finish strong. We are cheering you on every step of the way!


Every Minute Matters: Arriving on Time & Staying All Day

To give our students the best chance at success, we encourage everyone to arrive promptly and stay for the full school day. Most testing occurs during the morning hours when students are most alert, and leaving early can result in "make-up" sessions that pull students away from their regular classroom activities.


We kindly ask families to schedule doctor appointments or personal errands outside of school hours, or on non-testing days whenever possible. Every hour spent in the classroom is a building block for their confidence and performance. Thank you for helping us keep their momentum going!

Attendance Procedures and Absence Excuses


1. Every Absence Requires a Note

Please submit a written excuse for every day your child is absent. These notes are important for accurate record-keeping and are the best way to prevent your child from being flagged for truancy.

  • Parents may provide up to 5 written notes per semester that mark an excused absence.
  • Consecutive Illness: If your child is sick for several days in a row (for example, with the flu), those consecutive days will count as only one of your five parent excuses.


2. Why Documentation Matters

Consistent communication helps us distinguish between a student who is struggling with illness and a student who is missing school without a reason. By turning in your notes promptly, you help us keep your child’s record up to date and accurate.

Thank you for your continued partnership in your child's education. If you have any questions regarding these updates, please contact the front office.


Check Records in SPC

GRADUATING CLASS OF 2026

The milestone we've all been waiting for is almost here!


We are going LIVE on Facebook for all of our graduation ceremonies! Tune in and drop your cheer in the comments.


Save the Date:

IHS - May 5 @ 6pm

KHMS - May 6 @ 6pm

AHMS - May 7 @ 6pm

LHS - May 8 @ 6pm

HHMS - May 9 @ 10am

PHS - May 9 @ 3pm


All graduation ceremonies to be held at the SLU University Center.

Important Protocol & Reminders


Knowing where to park, which entrance to take into the building, and what is allowed inside will help allow you to focus your attention on your graduating senior. They've worked hard for this moment and want to share their success with you!


Arrival & Seating: We recommend arriving early to find parking and seating, as saved seats are not permitted. Follow designated parking and directional signage. Do not park on the grass. No tickets necessary for entry, no assigned seats for attending guests. Once guests enter the stadium, they will not be allowed to leave and come back.


Safety Protocol: Expect heavy traffic before and after ceremonies along University Avenue. Officers will be stationed in parking areas, event grounds, and in the University Center. Weapon detection dogs may be present in parking areas and near venue entrances.


Clear Bag Policy: For the safety of all attendees, a strict clear bag policy will be in effect. Metal Detectors will be enforced at all entry points.


Prohibited Items: Please refrain from bringing air horns, balloons, large signs, or confetti, as these can obstruct views and disrupt the formal proceedings.


Dress Code for Graduates: All graduates must arrive in full academic regalia (cap and gown). Please ensure gowns are pressed and caps are not decorated unless previously approved by school administration.


Photography & Video: Professional photographers will be on-site to capture the moment your student crosses the stage. We ask that guests remain in their seats during the ceremony to avoid blocking the aisles or the view of others. All graduation ceremonies will be live streamed via our TPSS Facebook page.


Commencement Etiquette: Once seated, all participants are expected to stay until the conclusion of the ceremony. Cell phones and other electronic devices should be silenced.


End of Ceremony: Families and graduates should decide on a place to meet outside the University Center after the ceremony, as guests are not allowed on the floor. Graduates and their guests are kindly asked to proceed directly to their vehicles and exit the campus in a timely manner.


Please be respectful, compassionate, and great from arrival through dismissal. We have a large number of graduates, and many families and friends who will show up to support them. We must practice patience, courtesy, and kindness throughout the event.



Visit us online for more information.


Congratulations seniors! We are all cheering for you!

SOCIAL EMOTIONAL LEARNING

Graphic and Caption curated by: Jalin McClinton

Intro to Social Media Marketing Class, TPSS Advanced College and Career Magnet Center

Finding Your Brave: Unleashing Our Inner Greatness


As we navigate the busy rhythms of home and school life, let’s take a moment to reflect on a powerful truth: "Embracing your courage and conquering your fears leads to achieving greatness!" Whether it’s a student facing a challenging exam, a parent tackling a new professional hurdle, or a child trying a new hobby, fear is often just a sign that we are standing on the edge of growth. By choosing bravery over comfort, we unlock the incredible potential that lives within each of us.

Let's commit to being each other's loudest cheerleaders, recognizing that greatness isn't about being perfect -it's about having the heart to keep moving forward.


Practicing Courage at Home and School

To help your family turn this sentiment into action, here are a few practical ways to foster bravery in our daily lives:


  • Normalize the "Brave Talk": During dinner, ask everyone to share a "courageous moment" from their day. This shifts the focus from just successes to the effort of trying something difficult.
  • The "Five-Second Rule": When facing a moment of hesitation—like raising a hand in class or introducing yourself to someone new—count down 5-4-3-2-1 and physically move before your brain has time to talk you out of it.
  • Reframe Fear as Excitement: Scientifically, fear and excitement feel very similar in the body (racing heart, butterflies). Encourage your kids to say, "I’m excited!" instead of "I’m scared" before a big presentation or game.
  • Model Vulnerability: Parents, share your own small fears with your children. When they see you "embracing courage" to learn a new skill or admit a mistake, they learn that greatness is a journey, not a destination.


OFFICE OF INNOVATION

Hope Closet


The Tangipahoa Parish School System (TPSS), in collaboration with Tangipahoa Crime Stoppers and Transport Ministries, is excited to announce The Hope Closet Project—a new initiative aimed at ensuring that food and hygiene items are available on all 34 school campuses throughout the parish. You can join our efforts!


Read More


Finding Innovative Ways to Make a Real Difference


The TPSS Office of Innovation is committed to making our schools the best they can be — and that starts with listening to you. Our Impact Questions form is a quick and easy way for you to share your thoughts, ideas, and feedback.



Complete Our Form


Mental Health Fair


You're Invited!

The purpose of this event is to increase mental health awareness in our community and connect families with local providers. Our goal is for families to have the opportunity to learn about services and potentially schedule appointments before leaving the event.


Throughout the fair, we will also include brief 10-minute mental health spotlight sessions, where professionals can share helpful facts and insights on a variety of mental health topics.


May 7, 2026

9am - 2pm

711 W. Coleman Avenue, Hammond


Complete Interest Form


For more information, please reach out to Ashley Gaten at ashley.gaten@tangischools.org

Parent Meeting


The Home Advantage: Maximizing your Impact on your Child's Learning & Growth


This session is specifically designed for parents of students in Amite, Independence, Tickfaw, Natalbany, and Loranger.


What You Will Gain:

  • Home Strategies: Find out about effective strategies to use at home to bolster learning.
  • District Insights: Learn about the district's "3 BIG rocks".
  • Stay Connected: Get tips on how to update your contact information with the school.
  • Learning Growth: Discover how to maximize your impact on your child's development.


Furry friends and farm fun will be included!


April 30, 2026

6pm

Natalbany Baptist Church
48024 Parsonage Rd, Natalbany 70451

English Class - English as a Second Language


Master the basics of English for Global Communication and Career Growth. This is a free class!


Course Topics:

  • Basic Vocabulary
  • Simple Grammar
  • Listening Skills
  • Speaking Practice
  • Reading and Writing


Adult classes will start June 2, 2026. Family classes will start June 4, 2026.

All classes to be held at the TPSS Family & Community Event Center at 711 W Coleman Ave, Hammond, LA 70403.


Register to Attend


For more information: ashley.gaten@tangischools.org

EARLY CHILDHOOD

Get Ready for PreK with ReadyStart Tangi!


Round One of selections has taken place, and parents received an email concerning acceptance and next steps. If accepted, parents should complete the registration process with Tangipahoa Parish School System. Parents can enroll here or call 985-474-8691.


Round Two of selections ends May 15. If a parent has not completed the over-the-phone application, please book an appointment from the Ready Start Tangi website.


Visit us Online to 

Book Your PreK Application Appointment


Call: (985) 748-2539 for more information

Pre-K is having fun learning about current events and reptiles!

Bright Light for our Beginning Readers


Keep an eye out for those special "Once" books making their way home in your kindergartner’s backpack! We encourage you to set aside a few moments each evening to let your child read these stories aloud to you.


Reading aloud is a foundational skill that builds fluency, boosts vocabulary, and strengthens the connection between spoken and written words. 


Sharing their hard work with an appreciative audience provides a wonderful sense of pride and encourages them to keep growing as a reader!

MAGNET PROGRAMS

Magnet School Programs


Transfer enrollment for Tangipahoa Parish School System is now open! Give your child the opportunity to explore unique magnet programs designed to match their interests and future goals.


From innovative academics to hands-on career pathways, there’s a place for every student to thrive.


Last day to enroll: June 1


Don't Miss Your Chance! Apply Today.

STUDENTS WITH AMAZING GIFTS

A Night to Remember


Our S.W.A.G. friends (Student with Amazing Gifts) had an incredible night at their High School Prom! It was such an electrifying evening, full of dancing, laughter, and hanging out with friends. A special thank you to Laine Hardy, for sharing his incredible talent and love for music with our S.W.A.G. family. We also want to thank Pray Sonic, and all of our countless volunteers and friends who helped to pull off the most amazing event of the year!

CHILD NUTRITION

Breakfast and Lunch


See what our cafeterias are serving up for the month of May!


School breakfast and lunch is FREE for ALL students this school year, thanks to the USDA Child Nutrition Community Eligibility Provision (CEP).


See Full Menu

Friday, May 1, 2026 is National School Lunch Hero Day!



STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES

Tangipahoa Crime Stoppers Fundraiser
Monday, May 4, 2026


Support our Tangipahoa Crime Stoppers. Wear blue jeans with your uniform top on Monday, May 4th for just a $1 donation.

2026 Jump Start Construction Connect Scholarship


This scholarship provides up to $1,000 to Jump Start graduates earning both a Jump Start credential and a Louisiana High School diploma.


Application Deadline: May 1, 2026


The scholarship supports Louisiana students in obtaining the necessary training to secure industry employment in high-demand, high-income construction crafts and STEM-related fields.


Find Your School to Apply

North Oaks Junior Volunteers


Looking for a meaningful way to spend your summer? Gain community service hours and explore the medical field through the North Oaks Junior Volunteer Program! 


Program Dates: June 2 – July 31

Ages: 14 – 17

Commitment: 4 hours per week

Positions are limited and filled on a first-come, first-served basis!


 Applications due: Wednesday, April 22

 Mandatory orientation: Tuesday, June 2


Interested? Call Volunteer Manager Malissa Gonzalez at (985) 230-6811 to request an application or learn more! Don’t miss this chance to grow, serve, and explore a future in healthcare! 

From Student to CEO: Apply for YEA!


Got a big idea? It’s time to turn it into a real business!

The Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA) is officially accepting applications for the 2026-2027 program. If you’re a student in grades 7-12 who wants to brainstorm, pitch to investors, and launch your very own company, this is for you.


Why join YEA?

  • Scholarships: $650 full program scholarship + a $2,000 scholarship to SLU College of Business upon graduation!
  • Mentorship: Learn directly from local business leaders and CEOs.
  • Skills: Master leadership, business planning, and pitching.


When: Wednesdays starting in September | 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM

Where: Small Business Development Center, Hammond, LA

Deadline: Applications are open now through June 30, 2026


Apply today at yeanorthshore.org


Space is limited—don't wait to start your journey!

Brighter Future Scholarship


Give our aspiring teachers a strong start by contributing to the Brighter Future Scholarship fund. Your donation will help students on the Pre-Educator pathway pursue their passion to a career in education.

Louisiana Lions Camp: 2026 Summer Season

There are still openings to attend!


The Louisiana Lions Camp is celebrating its 69th year of providing life-impacting, residential camping experiences at zero cost to the camper’s family. Located on 185 acres of piney woodlands in Leesville, LA, the camp offers a full range of summer activities including swimming, archery, fishing, arts and crafts.

Cost: There is no cost to the camper's family. The camp is funded by Louisiana Lions Clubs and private contributions.

Activities: Campers enjoy daily outdoor fun and special night events like the Carnival and the Camp Dance.


Visit the LionsCamp website for schedules, camp tips, and more!


Apply to Attend


If you need help with the online registration process, please call the camp office directly. 

(337) 293 - 6567

LionsCamp@gmail.com


FAMILY ENGAGEMENT

Get ready for our 7th Annual Youth Fishing Rodeo! 


Saturday, May 2, 2026

Pete's Lake, PARD

8am - 11am


This is a great opportunity for young anglers of all skill levels to enjoy the outdoors and have an amazing time at the park. Don’t forget your fishing gear and your lucky bait!


Pre-Register

2026 Summer Reading Program Kickoff Flyer


The image is a promotional flyer for the Tangipahoa Parish Library’s 2026 Summer Reading Program. On the left, a photo collage shows children interacting with a donkey and goats at Miss Kim’s Petting Zoo. On the right, a cartoon seed character wearing glasses is featured next to the theme, "PLANT A SEED, READ."


Join us for the Summer Reading Program Kickoff and sign up for your Summer Reading Passport at the following Miss Kim’s Petting Zoo events:

  • Hammond: April 25 at 11am - completed event
  • Loranger: May 2 at 11am
  • Ponchatoula: May 16 at 11am
  • Kentwood: May 23 at 11am
  • Independence: May 30 at 11am
  • Amite: June 6 at 11am

All programs are free to the public. You can sign up for the Summer Reading Program at any Tangipahoa Parish Library branch or visit TangiLibrary.com for more information.

Summer Reading Program Kickoff


Join us this Saturday, May 2, for our Summer Reading Program Kickoff at the Loranger Branch! Come meet the animals at Miss Kim's Petting Zoo and sign up for your official Summer Reading Passport.


When: Saturday, May 2

Time: 11am

Where: Loranger Branch, 54283 Hwy. 1062, Loranger


All programs are free to the public.


We can’t wait to see you there!

IN THE COMMUNITY

Tech Classes for Adults


Whether it was sending emails, navigating apps, or just feeling more comfortable with technology, this class can make a real difference!


Cell Phone Class

May 12 and 14

9am - 11am


Computer Class

May 19 and 21

9am - 11am


601 W. Coleman Avenue, Hammond



For more information:

(985) 277 - 5906

malone_kw@hammond.org

Join the Sea Lions Swim Team!


Swimmers ages 6 - 18 are invited to join the Sea Lions Swim Team at Zemurray Pool with the Hammond Recreation Department.


Practices begin May 26

Tuesdays & Thursdays – 5:45 PM

Limited spots available

For more information call 985-277-5903.

Chappapeela Summer Skills Camp


Ages 4–12
Co-Ed

Hammond, LA 
9 –11:30 AM


  • Basketball
  • Soccer
  • Football
  • Cheer
  • Volleyball + BST Camp
  • Youth Weight Training (Ages 9–14)


$65–$105 (+$10 out-of-district)


Registration NOW OPEN

PARD Youth Volleyball


Spots are limited in each age group, so be sure to sign up to secure your place on a team. Once spots are filled, registration will close - don’t miss out!


Registration: March 30 - May 3


Practices start the week of May 25th.

Games start the week of June 22nd.


To register, and for more information, visit: www.pard1.com

Registration for PARD Youth Tackle Football is now open! 


Whether your athlete is a seasoned pro or trying it out for the first time, we have a spot for them.


Come be a part of the Gators this season!


Registration: April 20th – July 5th

Season Starts: September 12th

Ages: 5-6, 7-8, 9-10, 11-13

Location: 19030 Ponchatoula Park Dr.

Fees:

  • In-District: $100
  • Out-of-District: $110


Ready to sign up? Visit www.pard1.com to get started. For questions, please call us at 985-370-7273.

Big news! Registration for PARD Cheer is OPEN!


Registration Dates: April 20th – August 9th


Season Starts: September 12th

Ages: 4–14


Fees:

  • In-District: $100
  • Out-of-District: $110


Location: 19030 Ponchatoula Park Dr.

Ready to sign up?


Visit www.pard1.com to register today!


Questions? Give us a call at 985-370-7273.

2026 PARD Cheer Camp


Dates: June 29 – July 1, 2026

Time: 9am – 12pm

Ages: 4 – 14

Where: 19030 Ponchatoula Park Dr., Gym 1


Fees:

• In District: $50

• Out of District: $60


Sign up online at www.pard1.com or call 985-370-7273 for more info.


Space is limited!

Recycling Day


Household Hazardous Waste Recycling Day is THIS Saturday, May 2, 2026 from 8am - 12pm in Zemurray Park.


This is a once year event and will happen rain or shine! Please share!

GET CONNECTED

Know the Policy


Our TPSS Student and Parent Handbook provides important information about district policies, expectations, and resources. We encourage all families to review it to ensure a successful and informed school year.

Follow Us on Facebook


The Tangischools Facebook page is a great place to get current information, updates, and helpful tips. Give us a follow, like our content, and share with friends!


Did you know? All of our schools and special programs have Facebook pages as well?

Tangischools App


The Tangischools App is available for Apple devices in the App Store and on Android devices in the Google Play store. Subscribe to receive notifications from your school, see the upcoming events calendar, and have access to all things Tangischools at your fingertips!

Bus Messages & Tracking


We highly recommend that families with children riding a Tangi School Bus download the Edulog Parent Portal Lite App through their cell phone’s app store to track transportation to and from school.

JCampus Student App


Have you created your Student Progress Center Account? If yes -- Download JCampus Student on your Apple or Android devices.

*Contact the front office of your child's school to obtain your pin number to set up your account. This information should go home with your child's beginning of the year information.

Tap the App


Students can report about a wide range of concerns, from mental health issues to threats of violence through the P3 app or through the Crime Stoppers website.

Speak to Crime Stoppers to make a report:

1 877 668 2421

Reach Out


Whether it's academic concerns, social-emotional support, or general school-related questions—we’re here to help. Together, we can make sure every student has the support they need to thrive this year!

Have a general question for the school district?

Reach out to us through email.


questions@tangischools.org

Alerts from Tangipahoa Parish Government


Tangi Alert is an emergency notification program provided to the residents of Tangipahoa with alerts about any hazardous events.


Send info to:

cell phones, SMS, home phone, email, and more!

Stay In Touch

Make sure your contact information is current.


Guardians may update their personal information in their Student Progress Center Account, or they may contact their child’s school and update the information with the school secretary.


Update My Contact Information


→ current phone number

→ email address


Text START to 

(985) 260 - 8474

to receive text messages from Tangischools


Do not have a Student Progress Center Account? Your child's front desk secretary can assist you with getting started.

STAY INFORMED




You can find the podcast on all major platforms, including Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

Coffee Talk Tuesdays


Be sure to catch us LIVE on Facebook each Tuesday at 2:30pm.


Superintendent Stilley sits down to chat with school and parish leaders, to share and discuss the "why" behind all that we do in Tangischools.


See our Recorded Episodes on our website.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Thursday, May 21 is a Half Day of School for Students!


See our school bell times for dismissal schedule.


UPCOMING EVENTS


Please follow the Facebook page of your school for testing and end-of-year events dates.



May 21: End of 4th 9 Weeks, Last Day for Students (1/2 day)


See our Full Academic Calendar

SchoolCash Online


Create an account, connect your schools and students to the account, and search the catalogue for availble fees.

Student Progress Center


Register your account to track student grades, attendance, announcements, & test scores.


Resolve A Problem


Have a question or concern? Reach out directly to your school by filling out our Resolve a Problem form.



TANGIPAHOA PARISH SCHOOL SYSTEM
59656 PULESTON ROAD, AMITE, LA 70422
P: 985-748-7153 
F: 985-748-8587
 
Facebook  Twitter  Linkedin  Instagram  
Follow. Like. Share.

Your copy should address 3 key questions: Who am I writing for (audience)? Why should they care (benefit)? What do I want them to do (call-to-action)?


Create a great offer by adding words like "free," "personalized," "complimentary," or "customized." A sense of urgency often helps readers take action, so consider inserting phrases like "for a limited time only" or "only 7 remaining!"