News Summary
The Shreveport Job Corps Center is set to close due to federal funding cuts, affecting nearly 300 at-risk students and their vocational training opportunities.
Shreveport – The Shreveport Job Corps Center, a critical resource for at-risk youth for 45 years, is set to close on June 30, 2025, due to federal funding cuts mandated by the U.S. Department of Labor. The decision impacts nearly 300 students, specifically 285 individuals who currently rely on the center for education and vocational training.
The closure comes in response to a nationwide pause in operations affecting 99 Job Corps centers, amidst “serious operational and safety concerns” identified by the U.S. Department of Labor. The Department anticipates a staggering $140 million financial deficit for the 2024 fiscal year, which is projected to escalate to $213 million in 2025.
Students displaced by the closure are being relocated to shelters, group homes, or sent to other states, including South Carolina, Georgia, and Washington. The center’s programs have offered education paths for high school diplomas or HiSET diplomas, along with job training and housing for individuals between the ages of 16 and 24.
This closure aligns with President Donald Trump’s 2026 budget proposal, indicating a broader shift in the federal government’s stance on employment and youth programs. The emotional distress of Job Corps employees has been palpable, as many were not given advance notice of the closure and now face job uncertainty.
Local officials, including members of the Caddo Parish Commission, have labeled the closure as “deeply troubling.” Students such as Rolanda Jackson have expressed concern over the transfer of their credits and the continuation of their vocational training, underscoring the disruptions caused by the impending closure.
In response to the situation, community leaders are urging Congress to take swift action to support the affected students and staff. The Job Corps Center has served as a vital resource for at-risk youth, providing stability and essential skills needed for entering the workforce.
Local leaders actively advocate for alternatives to ensure ongoing workforce development and training opportunities in the area. The closure not only displaces students but also raises concerns about the future of the vacant facility and its impact on the local community.
Moreover, local employers have shown interest in hiring the center’s graduates, indicating a persistent demand for trained workers in the community. As the closure date approaches, local officials remain committed to connecting students to alternative training programs and housing assistance.
The Job Corps Center has been instrumental in equipping at-risk youth with educational and vocational resources, aiding their journey towards successful employment and personal growth. As the community grapples with the loss of this vital institution, discussions on effective solutions continue to unfold, with the aim of fostering a supportive environment for young individuals seeking a brighter future.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- KSLA: Shreveport Job Corps Closure
- Wikipedia: Job Corps
- Shreveport Bossier Advocate: Job Corps Center Closing
- Google Search: Shreveport Job Corps Center closure
- KTBS: Job Corps Center Closure
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Job Corps
- NOLA: Rally to Save Job Corps
- Google News: Job Corps funding cuts
Author: STAFF HERE SHREVEPORT WRITER
The SHREVEPORT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREShreveport.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Shreveport, Caddo Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mudbug Madness Festival, Red River Revel Arts Festival, and Independence Bowl. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Shreveport-Bossier Chamber of Commerce and Shreveport Regional Arts Council, plus leading businesses in gaming, healthcare, and energy that power the local economy such as Horseshoe Casino, Ochsner LSU Health, and Atmos Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBatonRouge.com and HERENewOrleans.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
