The Southwest Louisiana area school systems provide quality education at every level, from preschool centers to advanced degrees in higher education. The area's competitive and comprehensive education programs help assure that new and expanding businesses have a continuing pool of workers with the level of education and expertise required for their operations.

Schools at all levels are constantly improving their general education curricula with programs specifically designed to meet employment possibilities.

Primary Education
An emphasis is placed on the basics of mathematics, reading and language arts during the kindergarten through 5th grade level. Students from 6th through 8th grade are met with a rigorous curriculum to prepare them for high school. English, mathematics, science and social studies serve as the core curriculum. Physical education, music and art are also part of the course offerings. Exploratory courses offered include many areas in home economics and industrial arts.

Secondary schools offer sound basic academic programs, plus many elective courses designed for individual preferences.

Special Education
The Special Education department provides programs, which meet the needs of exceptional students. Deaf students and exceptional students are served by specialty tailored programs. Programs are provided for the severely handicapped students, some of whom require special medical attention. Related services such as physical and occupational therapy are provided for students whose evaluations indicate a need. Homebound instruction is also provided by itinerant teachers. For more information contact the following:

Private Schools
The area enjoys a strong sense of private sector support, which manifests in successful and innovative private schools. There are several private/parochial schools in the area. For more information contact:

The Diocese of Lake Charles
414 Iris Street
Lake Charles, LA 70601
(337) 439-7418

Home Schooling
Louisiana Department of Education
Home Study Office
626 N. 4th Street
Post Office Box 94064
Baton Rouge LA 70804-9064
(225)342-3473

Higher Education
There are several colleges and universities in Southwest Louisiana or within reasonable commuting distance from the area. McNeese State University, located in Lake Charles, has an approximate student population of 8,400. Founded as a junior college division of Louisiana State University in 1939, it is today now a fully accredited university operating under the Louisiana Board of Trustees. It provides notable degree programs including an MBA program and degrees in Nursing, Engineering, Education, etc. All in all, McNeese offers over 100 degree programs.

For more information contact:
McNeese State University
Registrar's Office
Post Office Box 92495
Lake Charles, LA 70609-2495
(337) 475-5151

Vocational / Technical
The area has numerous vocational technical schooling available ranging from hair care to business to electronics to nursing to fashion. Technical schools provide resident necessary training for future jobs.

SOWELA
SOWELA Louisiana Technical College provides training in business and computer literacy, as well as aviation oriented programs which include a certified A&P mechanics program. Other proprietary vocational-technical schools include Clark College and Delta School of Business.


Delta Tech
The mission of Delta Tech is to recruit, train, graduate, and assist in placing students with the job skills that are in demand by employers. Our career preparation provides individuals with quick access to the job market while maintaining a standard of excellence that promotes competence and success on the job.

Delta Tech, founded in 1970, is a private co-educational school offering business, medical, and technical courses. The school is located in Lake Charles' historical district at 517 Broad Street. Today, Delta Tech offers diploma and Associate Degrees in such fields as Drafting, Information Technology, Business Management, Accounting, Medical Office Assistant, and Administrative Assistant.