The Bossier Chamber of Commerce recently wrapped up two major initiatives aimed at supporting teachers and students in Bossier Parish: its annual “Pack the Bus” school supply drive and the long-running New Teacher Welcome.
On July 31, the Chamber held its Pack the Bus event outside Walmart on Airline Drive, inviting both the public and local businesses to donate school supplies. The turnout was strong, with more than a dozen business representatives showing up to support the cause, ultimately collecting more supplies than ever before.
The Pack the Bus initiative, which began in 2019, focuses on gathering business contributions that directly benefit Bossier Parish Schools. All items donated go straight to the hands of educators, helping students in need while also easing the burden on teachers who often spend out of pocket for classroom necessities.
The next day, on August 1, the Chamber continued its support for local educators by delivering welcome bags to nearly 150 new teachers during the Bossier Schools New Teacher Orientation. The welcome bags were filled with useful items, school supplies, and discounts donated by Chamber members.
Presented by Barksdale Federal Credit Union, the New Teacher Welcome is a two-decade tradition spearheaded by the Chamber to encourage and support educators as they start their journey with Bossier Parish Schools. In addition to the welcome bags, several businesses provided door prizes to help outfit new classrooms — including a grand prize from Bossier Federal Credit Union featuring a rolling cart, retro-style mini fridge, laminator, microwave, and more.
“It’s important that we welcome these teachers to Bossier Schools in a way they remember,” said Lisa Johnson, President/CEO of the Bossier Chamber of Commerce. “Our Bossier School system is a top district and we want to keep it that way. We want our teachers to know we appreciate their dedication to our future workforce and that we want them to stay.”
These efforts reflect the Chamber’s ongoing commitment to supporting education and workforce development across the region.