Paul Breaux Middle School proudly bares the name of an African American who fought to educate students of color. 

In 1896, the school was located where the Larosen Elementary School sits at Pinhook and Evangeline Thruway. 

PBMS School counselor Chasity Craven says as soon as it was deemed proper for black students to be educated, Paul breaux took the the opportunity to open a school. “Paul Breaux was in charge of the school from 1896 to 1926 and in 1926 he passed away.”

Craven says that’s when W.D. Smith awith a passion to educate students of color took over. Craven says at one point there was a push to build additional schools.  The schools for black students were to be built out of wood and the other schools in brick. “He started saying we want the same equal,” Craven said.

The fight was won and that’s how the Paul Breaux Middle School we know today was built. “In order to get it brick they couldn’t have a gym or anythign like that,” Craven explained.

PBMS Olita Mayfield teaches at paul breaux.  Mayfield says her parents met there in the 60’s before the school was integrated. “The legacies in these halls just over whelms me. I showed you the pictures of the original principals.  I walk by there every day and know their passion and commitment.”

Mayfield says legacy continues to be a major motivating factor at Paul Breaux Middle.  The name alone demands it.  “His original mission of ensuring the continued education of all chidlren is continued here every day.”

PBMS Educator Lamar Dixon stands before his students with pride. “Not just for this school but also for the community.  the man who saw fit for these kids to have an equal opportunity for education like everybody else literally laid the ground work,” Dixon said.

Dixon says it’s important for students to have a dream and work to make that dream come true.  He says it can be a challenge but challenge is what Paul Breaux was founded on.

“Anybody that’s any type of teacher; we know these are the challenges that we’re going to face so we come in the morning with a bright smile on our face ready for the challenge,” Dixon added.