Classes are being held as normal at Monterey High School after a microbial growth led to a delay in the start of school. Originally scheduled for August 6, the start date was pushed back to this week.
Officials said possibly hazardous mold was found in the building. The mold is believed to be linked to newly installed HVAC units and skylights.
Pre-K through 5th grade returned to campus on Monday, while 6th through 12th grade began the week with virtual instruction. School leaders said Monterey will make up missed days by holding classes on Mondays for 10 weeks after Labor Day. They also said the rest of the parish’s schools will observe a four-day week.
In higher education, LSU is launching its Tiger Nation Challenge for 2026 as the new academic year begins. The annual fundraising drive supports alumni association programming across the country and helps LSU alumni stay connected. LSU Vice President of Programming Lauren Griffin said the 2026 drive includes competition against Clemson as part of the lead-up to the kickoff. Griffin said donations can be made through the LSU Alumni Association website, and participants are eligible for prizes, including two tickets to every LSU home game for the season. Griffin also said residents do not need to be LSU alumni to donate.
As Labor Day approaches, the Mississippi Highway Patrol said it will conduct its annual holiday enforcement. The agency urged drivers to prioritize safety and said patrols will increase throughout the weekend. Troopers said they will enforce traffic regulations and assist drivers who need help. MHP also recommended keeping an emergency kit in the vehicle, including a spare tire, jack, food, water, and enough gas.
Following the “Love the Boot” initiative, state leaders said a new effort called “Love Our Waterways” is focused on cleaning up litter from Mississippi’s lakes, rivers, and bayous. Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser said there is a connection between the two efforts, noting that 80% of what is thrown out on highways ends up in waterways. He said more than 200 events are already registered and that information on how to participate is available at lovelawaterways.org.
Nungesser said cleaning up waterways helps reduce flooding by preventing storm drains from becoming clogged, and supports efforts to maintain the state’s outdoor resources.
In local river information, the Mississippi River in Natchez Valley is at 29.03 feet and falling.
