By Kyle Roberts
RUSTON, La. — Despite a shorter meeting Tuesday night, there were two major moving pieces as Lynda Henderson of District 9 made her resignation official and Superintendent Ricky Durrett announced that he will retire in June of this year.
“I’ve enjoyed every minute (of my time on this board),” Henderson said. “I’m here for the children, and I want every child to have a good education. My goal is to be a servant, and I intend to keep that going on the police jury.”
Lincoln Parish School Board President Gregg Phillips praised Henderson for her time on the board, as did other board members.
“She’s been a great inspiration and a great shoulder to lean on,” Phillips said. “We thank you for your years of service — our school system is better for it.”
Said Joe Mitcham, “She was my vice president for eight years while I was president, and she didn’t say very much. She was quiet as a church mouse over there, but she was strong, and I appreciate that.”
And Dr. Danielle Williams: “Thank you, Mrs. Henderson, for being a guiding light and showing compassion for our kids, students and employees.”
Durrett also set his retirement date for June 30, 2026, which was reported last night by the Lincoln Parish Journal.
“We have a great school district here in Lincoln Parish, and we’ve had great superintendents before me,” Durrett said last night. “Our district was in a great spot when I took over for (former superintendent Dr. Mike Milstead). I think the people that we have in our schools working, the teachers, principals — all of those people are great and make our system go. That will continue after I’m gone, because I feel really good with the people that we have going forward as I leave.”
Williams was also honored for completing more than 20 hours of training last year, which gives her the title of a certified board member.
The school board also approved the calendar for 2026-27, which is included in a link below.
Absent were Hunter Smith, Otha Anders and Debbie Abrahm. The board will meet again on Tuesday, March 3, at Choudrant Elementary School, at 12 p.m.
