The Lafayette Parish School System is preparing to break ground on a transformative new K-8 school on the north side of Lafayette. This $50 million investment reflects a strong commitment to students, families, and the future of the community.
The two-story facility will be built on the current JW Faulk Elementary property and will consolidate students from JW Faulk Elementary, Baranco Elementary, and Paul Breaux Middle School into one modern campus designed to serve approximately 1,200 students.
Designed for Growth and Opportunity
The new school is thoughtfully designed to meet the needs of students at every stage of development. While unified under one roof, the layout ensures age-appropriate separation and safety:
- Dedicated areas for lower elementary, upper elementary, and middle school students
- Separate outdoor play spaces for each grade band
- Two physical education facilities:
- A regulation-size gymnasium where middle school students can host athletic competitions
- A second activity space designed specifically for elementary students
The entire property will be fully developed, including a football field and basketball court, expanding athletic and extracurricular opportunities for students across grade levels.
Smart Planning for Traffic and Safety
Traffic flow and neighborhood impact were central to the design process.
The campus will feature:
- A bus drop-off area capable of stacking 15 buses on site, preventing traffic backups onto Louisiana Avenue
- A car rider loop that can stack 144 vehicles on campus, eliminating the need for families to line up along East Willow Street
These improvements are designed to enhance safety and reduce congestion during arrival and dismissal.
Built with the Future in Mind
Similar to the development of the new Lafayette High School, construction will begin on the portion of land behind the existing JW Faulk building. Once the new school is complete, the current structure will be demolished, and that space will be redeveloped for the football field and additional outdoor areas.
District 4 School Board Member Amy Trahan worked closely with Superintendent Francis Touchet, Jr. to identify funding for the project and shape its overall design. During a February community meeting, project architects shared their vision for a school that reflects a modern, fresh, and welcoming aesthetic, one that honors the history of the community while looking confidently toward its future.
Investing in North Lafayette
This project represents more than a new building. It is a strategic investment in:
- Expanded academic opportunities
- Enhanced extracurricular access
- Improved safety and traffic flow
- A revitalized campus experience for families
By consolidating resources and designing with intention, LPSS is creating a campus built for long-term student success, one that supports learning, growth, and community pride for generations to come.