Good morning, Monroe.

State leaders and local advocates are pushing for increased funding to support early childhood education as over 100,000 children remain without care, impacting the local workforce and economy.

Lawmaker Pat Moore said community partnerships (parents and businesses) are needed to bridge the funding gap.

Monroe City Schools approved a new VR curriculum that lets middle school students experience different career trades using immersive headsets + board members will vote on eight projects, including this tech initiative, on Wednesday.

Rural communities in Louisiana struggle with a shortage of mixed-animal veterinarians as more graduates choose higher-paying pet practices over farm care.

LSU is launching summer programs that expose rural high school students to veterinary work — a plan to support local food safety and the economy.

Run for the Roses 5k

8 AM – 12 PM — Forsythe Park — Registration fee applies — Celebrate Valentine’s Day by running for a cause and supporting philanthropy with Alpha Omicron Pi.

Fashion Fusion 2026

7-10 p.m. — Monroe Civic Center — Benefit entry — Fashion meets dance in a runway show supporting local cancer patients.