Shreveport, Louisiana, September 5, 2025
News Summary
Jeri Bowen has been appointed as the interim representative for District 8 on the Caddo Parish School Board after Christine Tharpe’s resignation. Bowen’s appointment comes following a vote where she presented her qualifications alongside other candidates. Serving until a special election in 2026, Bowen aims to enhance educational outcomes for students in the community, leveraging her extensive experience and local roots.
Shreveport, Louisiana – Jeri Bowen has been appointed as the interim representative for District 8 on the Caddo Parish School Board, following the resignation of Christine Tharpe. This decision comes after a special session held by the board to evaluate three candidates vying for the position. The interim appointment is significant as Bowen will serve until a scheduled special election on April 18, 2026.
The selection process for the interim position concluded with a vote by the board members after candidate presentations. Bowen, along with Cheyenna Newman and Emma Shepard, took turns outlining their qualifications and vision for the role. Each candidate was given ten minutes to present, allowing the board to evaluate their readiness and commitment to serving the Caddo Parish community.
Submissions for the interim role closed at noon on Tuesday, with applicants required to provide their date of birth, address, length of residency in District 8, and a statement of interest. The selection of Bowen fills a local void as Tharpe’s departure has necessitated immediate leadership to represent the interests of constituents in District 8.
Bowen has deep roots in the community, having lived in District 8 for over 25 years and being a graduate of Southwood High School. She is also a parent of two children who have graduated from Caddo Schools, signifying her long-standing connection to the educational system within the district. Her experience includes a nine-year tenure as the Executive Director of the Northwest Louisiana Family Justice Center, where she has demonstrated a commitment to service and advocacy.
During her presentation to the board, Bowen highlighted the crucial role of education in the community and voiced her intentions to foster collaboration among board members and district leaders. She emphasized her dedication to improving outcomes for students throughout Caddo Parish, not just within District 8. This strategic focus on collaboration aligns with the board’s mission to enhance the educational landscape for all students in the area.
The timeline leading up to the special election involves a qualification period set from January 14 to January 16, during which candidates wishing to run for the permanent position can file their paperwork. This process ensures that community members will have a chance to elect a representative who they believe best addresses the needs of District 8 and the larger Caddo Parish School District.
The swearing-in ceremony for Jeri Bowen followed immediately after the board’s vote, marking her official entry into the role and her readiness to engage with the challenges ahead. As the interim board member, Bowen’s actions and decisions will be closely watched as she navigates her responsibilities and works towards the betterment of students and educational standards in her district.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who was appointed as the interim District 8 representative on the Caddo Parish School Board?
Jeri Bowen was appointed to the interim position.
What prompted the appointment of an interim member?
The appointment was necessary following the resignation of Christine Tharpe.
When will the special election for the permanent position occur?
The special election is scheduled for April 18, 2026.
What qualifications did candidates need to submit for consideration?
Candidates were required to submit their date of birth, address, duration of residency in District 8, and a statement of interest.
Key Features of the Interim Appointment
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Position Filled | Interim District 8 Representative |
| Incoming Member | Jeri Bowen |
| Previous Member | Christine Tharpe |
| Term Duration | Until April 18, 2026 |
| Application Deadline | Tuesday, before noon |
| Candidates Interviewed | Jeri Bowen, Cheyenna Newman, Emma Shepard |
| Swearing-in Date | Immediate after board vote |
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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.
