Lafourche District 4 school board

The Lafourche Parish School Board will have at least one new representative when the District 4 votes are tallied. Due to incumbent Robert Naquin’s withdrawal from the race, it will come down to first-timers Marian Fertitta and Gregory Torres in District 4.

Fertitta said she was motivated to run for the position because of her affection for children and good schools.

“I am just a believer in quality schools,” she said. “I think that all children deserve to have the best education that they can. I think that we need to make sure their needs are met.”

Torres said he is also running because of a desire to see students succeed.

“I’ve always had an interest in doing it, and its now a strong desire because I care about the success of young students in the school system,” Torres said. “That care was perpetuated by the interest I have in students in higher education.”

Torres said he wants to take a look at increasing grant funding and the number of students who receive a post-secondary education.

“Only 40 percent of our students are going to post-secondary education,” Torres said. “Are we doing the best we can to motivate and make sure those and other students are prepared and know what their possibilities are?”

Fertitta said she will bring educational experience to the board room if elected.

“A vote for me on Oct. 2 is an investment in our future,” Fertitta said. “I am experienced in the classroom, and as a supervisor and assistant superintendent. I have a lot of experience and knowledge and will bring that knowledge and background to the school board.”