Education

Jefferson Parish school officials are proposing a $404 million budget for 2012-2013.

The Times-Picayune reports the proposal takes into account recent moves to close schools and cut staff to offset rising costs.

The board plans a public hearing on the budget July 25 at Alfred Bonnabel Magnet Academy High in Kenner.

The largest slice of the budget in in employee compensation for employees — more than $329 million.

Charles Babbage said, “The public character of every public servant is legitimate subject of discussion, and his fitness or unfitness for office may be fairly canvassed by any person.”

The head of a prominent conservative Christian group in Louisiana is critical of the University of Louisiana-Lafayette for offering a new minor in lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender studies.

The Advocate reports that the area of study was first offered in the spring.

Louisiana Family Forum President Gene Mills said the coursework does not reflect Louisiana values. And U.S. Rep. Jeff Landry, a New Iberia Republican, said it doesn't provide an academic benefit to students.

The Orleans Parish School Board plans to lay off nearly two dozen employees, largely because of a drop in federal funding for low-income students and those with special needs.

The Times-Picayune reported the list of staff losing their jobs includes four teachers.

Interim Superintendent Stan Smith, who has been warning of a potential budget gap for months, said layoffs would have gone deeper — to more than 30 positions — were it not for some recent resignations.