St. Landry, Louisiana, School Board Exploring P/C Insurance Options

The St. Landry Parish School Board has voted to begin receiving quotes for the district’s property, casualty and liability insurance coverage.

The Advocate reports board attorney Gerard Caswell recommended on April 11 that school system officials request paying the insurance premiums incrementally rather than in one annual payment during negotiations with prospective companies.

At its March meeting, the board implemented short-term and long-term cost reductions plans to help offset a projected $4 million general fund deficit by July. At the April 11 meeting, acting Superintendent Joseph Cassimere said the district’s insurance policies expire June 30.

The district has its property, casualty, workers’ compensation and liability coverage with the Dupre, Carriere and Godchaux Insurance Agency from Opelousas.

Caswell said under Louisiana public bid laws, the district is not obligated to obtain bids.

“(Insurance) proposals come in differently. Some companies will draw up proposals differently, covering only certain things,” Caswell said. “The companies offering the proposals also may be rated differently.”

Debbie Faul, the district’s alternative school facilitator, said the parish spends $1.172 million annually for property and liability coverage.