Preparations are already underway at T.S. Cooley Elementary Magnet School in Lake Charles for the 2023-2024 school year. Registration will begin on February 6 and through February 28. All students living in Calcasieu Parish entering K-5 grade are eligible to register for testing and have a chance to gain admission to this excellent program.

Parents and guardians may apply for testing registration online at www.cpsb.org/cooley. All applicants will be screened and ranked according to test scores (highest to lowest). Ranking order will determine acceptance into the Cooley magnet program. If an applicant registers after the registration deadline, Feb. 28, they will be placed on a waitlist and if a space becomes available they will be tested for admission.

My daughter attended Cooley all five years, and I can confirm this is a wonderful school. Cooley is one of the top elementary schools in Louisiana, a Nationally Certified Magnet School, a National Blue Ribbon School, and a Leader in Me Lighthouse School, and is currently ranked as a top elementary school in Louisiana.

Cooley has a strong academic program that emphasizes art integration. In addition to the regular elementary curriculum, this school also offers various electives in Music, Art, French, full-time Physical Education, Library, Piano, Performing Choir, Advanced Art, and numerous clubs like BETA and Chess.

I was and still am a busy parent and took advantage of their Extended Day Care on days I had to work over. It was a lifesaver and is available for all students needing care after school. Bus transportation is provided from pre-designated locations as well.

T.S. Cooley will host an Open House on January 25 and February 14. Private tours are also available. Interested parents are invited to visit the school website or call the school office at (337) 217-4680 for more info.

See How School Cafeteria Meals Have Changed Over the Past 100 Years

Using government and news reports, Stacker has traced the history of cafeteria meals from their inception to the present day, with data from news and government reports. Read on to see how various legal acts, food trends, and budget cuts have changed what kids are getting on their trays.