Fontenot Resigns As Principal At Sacred Heart Of Ville Platte

The Sacred Heart School of Ville Platte will begin the next school year under new leadership as Diane Fontenot resigns as principal.

Fontenot's departure followed the release of a group's report evaluating contentious issues that has plagued the school's community. The group, commissioned by Bishop Michael Jarrell in mid-May, said Fontenot's relationship with parents and stakeholders has become "irreparable," hindering her leadership capacity.

Jarrell endorsed the report in which it was noted parents complained, that under Fontenot, several teachers and coaches were fired or resigned.

"I realize that the past few months have been a trying time for all stakeholders at Sacred Heart School," Jarrell said in a letter issued to the Sacred Heart parents and stakeholders. "The situation had no easy answers ... nonetheless, it is a way forward."

The committee also determined, through its investigation, that it is necessary to establish an Advisory Council that is considered "vital in providing stakeholders with a voice in the operation and direction of the school."