Charter Schools Extend Sign-Ups

LAFAYETTE, La. (AP) — Lafayette parents now have until March 31 to sign their children up for new charter schools set to open in August.

Working with a local board, the management company Charter Schools USA plans to open the Lafayette Renaissance Charter Academy in northern Lafayette Parish. So far, spokeswoman Colleen Reynolds says the company has received 295 student applications.

Meanwhile, Reynolds says the Acadiana Renaissance Charter Academy has drawn 505 applications. That school will open in Youngsville.

Both schools will serve students in kindergarten through sixth grade next year, with plans to add more grades in future years.