1. Bossier Parish Schools
City: Benton, LA
Category: Education
Telephone: (318) 549-5000
Address: 316 North Sibley St.
Description: With 34 schools, and an Adult Education/General Education Degree program, the Butler Educational Complex and the Charlotte Ann Mitchell Educational Center, the Bossier Parish School system is designed to help all students achieve academic excellence. And with the increase in residents, there are plans for new schools and buildings to accommodate the ever-growing student body, currently almost 23,000 students from kindergarten through high school. Bossier students score well above the state and national averages on standardized tests, such as the Iowa Tests of Educational Development. These high scores reflect the diligence of teachers, administrators, and staff to provide the personal attention to each student necessary for them to achieve their very best. Students with special learning needs will find assistance through the Butler Educational Complex, while students whose behavior seems to block their ability to learn can learn to be achievers at the Charlotte Ann Mitchell Educational Center. With a district-wide technology plan in place, students are being prepared to engage in the 21st century, while each school finds more cost-efficient strategies for providing quality instruction. The Bossier Parish School Board consists of 12 publically elected members who serve four-year terms.
2. Cypress Black Bayou Recreation And Water Conservation District
City: Benton, LA
Category: Parks & Recreation
Telephone: (318) 965-0007
Address: 135 Cypress Park Dr.
Description: This large outdoor facility, located approximately 15 miles north of Bossier City, offers numerous opportunities to enjoy and learn about the flora and fauna of northwest Louisiana. For a nominal entrance fee, you can easily spend a day or more swimming in Cypress Black Bayou; grilling at one of the numerous picnic tables, many located under large shade trees; walking the nature trails (some are wheelchair accessible); or fishing off one of the three large piers located at the park. A boat launch is also available (but be aware that fees for boat permits and launching will apply). For the kids, you will want to check out the nature center and on-site zoo (please read the Zoo Rules sign carefully). A volleyball court and open play area is located in the middle of the park. Large groups up to 100 people can rent one of the picnic shelters. Just cannot pull yourself away? Then make plans to stay. For RV campers there are 73 wooded sites with water and electricity hook-ups, with long-term stays possible during the off-season. This area has two large bath houses, complete with showers. Primitive camping sites are also available, with a restroom and water spigot nearby, so not too rustic. And three cabins, along with three cottages, can be rented. The cabins can accommodate up to four persons while the cottages are designed with a maximum of six persons in mind. Reservations are required so call in advance, especially during the summer. Prices for accommodations and sites vary by season.
3. Heritage Village
City: Benton, LA
Category: Tours & Attractions
Telephone: (318) 742-5645
Address: 417 Sibley St.
Description: Step back in time to the pioneer days of northwest Louisiana. Heritage Village, located north of Bossier City in Benton, consists of six historic structures, including a ca. 1840 six-room dogtrot—two log cabins joined by a roof, creating an open, cool space where the dogs, and their masters, could rest and escape the heat (hence the origin of the name). It’s a very popular building style in the South. Other buildings include an 1884 log cabin, a movable plantation kitchen, a one-room schoolhouse, an early 1900 corn crib, and a blacksmith shop. Call for visiting hours.