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“I am beyond grateful for the opportunities I have been given thus far, and I look forward to continuing my journey as a student, leader, and advocate after high school."

Saniya Abbas, a senior at Destrehan High School who enjoys traveling, art, and writing, can read Arabic, speaks four languages (English, Urdu, Punjabi, and Hindi), and is currently learning American Sign Language. After high school, she plans to continue her academic journey at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and aspires to become a biomedical engineer.

“We passed out meals after Hurricane Ida, and everyone appreciated it."

Ben White is a fifth grader at Lakewood Elementary School who is in talented theatre, talented art, and choir. He believes it is important to help people in need and chooses to make a difference by combatting homelessness and littering.

“I try to be a good role model all day, every day - whether it's just doing what I'm told or taking time to listen to other people."

Meredith Bordelon is an eighth grader at Albert Cammon Middle School who enjoys tumbling, singing, dancing, and drawing. She strives to bring positivity and inspiration through her experiences with leadership roles, commitment to community service, and dedication to academics.

“I strive to be a good student at school, be involved in activities, and look for ways to try new things while having fun."

Claire Bueche is a fifth grader at R.J. Vial Elementary School who is in robotics, band, and talented art. Besides enjoying scouting and sewing, she looks for ways to support families of people dealing with cancer.

“Participating in sports and competitions has allowed me to work with others more fluidly, no matter the circumstances."

Remy Zeringue, an eighth grader at R.K. Smith Middle School with perfect attendance, participates in a variety of sports: soccer, baseball, basketball, football, and jiu itsu. He enjoys spending time hunting and fishing with his family and friends.

“My favorite subject is math because it challenges me, and I like to be challenged."

Julia England, a fifth grader at Ethel Schoeffner Elementary School, is president of her school's 4-H Club, a member of the pep squad, and in talented art. For her future career, she hopes to one day follow in the footsteps of gymnast Simone Biles or her math teacher, Ms. DeJean.

“I have made many lasting friendships and have had amazing opportunities to establish myself as a leader in my school and in the community of St. Charles Parish."

Jessa Barnhill, a senior at Hahnville High School who is actively involved in the visual and performing arts, enjoys giving back to her community as evidenced by accumulating more than 300 hours of community service during high school. Planning to major in biomedical engineering, she is currently considering Case Western Reserve, Clemson, Washington, and Johns Hopkins Universities as potential sites to continue her education.

“I am committed to growing as a student and a leader, and I look forward to the opportunities that the future holds."

Brynlee Perez is a fifth grader at Norco Elementary School who enjoys cheering, gymnastics, and crocheting. Besides being very involved in activities both in and out of school, she owns a business making and selling bracelets at a salon.

“It is my hope and dream that as a leader, I can inspire other students to always try their best and explore new opportunities that our schools provide."

Layla Perkins is an eighth grader at J.B. Martin Middle School who is an athlete, an artist, and an author. In addition to access to the arts, she is passionate about mental health awareness and environmental conservation.

“I like to help other people find their style.”

Lily Taylor is a fifth grader at St. Rose Elementary School who is interested in fashion, theater, and music. With a caring heart, she is concerned about the environment, stray animals, and the destructive impacts caused by hurricanes.

“I have learned that you can be happy serving others in need."

Silas Pourciau is an eighth grader at Harry Hurst Middle School who is involved with robotics, sports, and volunteering. Baseball, injuries and illnesses, and Hurricane Ida provided opportunities for him to develop resiliency, knowing that with determination and hard work he can overcome any obstacle.

“I get excited when I get to help my friends and watch them succeed!"

Eliana Halder is a fifth grader at Luling Elementary School who loves to write and has a small business YouTube channel with more than 2,000 subscribers. In addition to studying taekwondo, she spends her free time helping care for animals, planting, and preserving foods at her grandfather's farm

“Playful learning, giggles shared, lifelong foundations"

Haley Frickey teaches Pre-kindergarten and Kindergarten students at St. Rose Elementary School and has 7 years of experience. Fascinated by early childhood development, she pursued a degree in education to help build a strong learning foundation for students with exceptionalities. She strongly believes that in order to make progress academically, children need a foundation of independence in taking care of themselves and their things while at school.

“Special needs children bring me joy!"

Heidi Pizani teaches Pre-kindergarten at Allemands Elementary School and has 20 years of experience. She became an educator because of her love for children and her desire to make a difference in their lives, and her dream for her students is for them to be kind by sharing and caring.

“Shape futures, spark laughter, inspire greatness"

Wayne Sentilles teaches performance-based social studies at Destrehan High School and has 21 years of experience. Inspired by the teachers and coaches who served as role models throughout his life, their influence led him into the classroom, where he now strives to make the same impact on his students.

“Kids know when you really care!"

Mona Wexler teaches English Language Arts and Math to third and fourth graders at Ethel Schoeffner Elementary School and has 17 years of experience. Her dream for her students is to gain confidence and be successful. She believes success leads to taking chances and dreaming big!

“Teaching for a better society tomorrow"

Kathryn Wilken teaches English Language Arts at Albert Cammon Middle School and has 10 years of experience. She was inspired by incredible role models, like her teacher Mrs. Hildebrand, who made English literature come to life. Her dream for her students is for them to find a love for reading, no matter the genre, before they leave her class.

“Empowering minds, fostering growth, building confidence"

Diana Mascarella teaches Math at Luling Elementary School and has 12 years of experience. She believes learning never stops - for students or for herself. She believes each year brings new challenges and rewarding moments and that it's the small victories that make teaching meaningful.

“Unexpected path: shaping lives, inspiring futures"

Lacy Trosclair teaches eighth grade English Language Arts at R.K. Smith Middle School and has 17 years of experience. She initially pursued engineering but discovered a deeper passion for connecting with and inspiring students, wanting them to know that their hard work, persistence, open mind, and positive attitude can take them anywhere.

“Teach for His glory, their good"

Ashley Cotton teaches at New Sarpy Elementary School and has five years of experience. She dreams that her students will find joy in their ability to read, that they will be proud of the hard work they put into learning, and that they will look back and see that their classroom was filled with goodness, grace, accountability, and second chances.

“Show you care; they will soar!"

Jill Clement teaches reading and writing at Mimosa Park Elementary School and has 27 years of years of experience. Her dream for her students is that they will leave her room feeling confidence in themselves. She wants them to realize their potential and know that they are smart and capable, not only in academics, but in all aspects of life!

“An inspired, connected student is limitless."

Monique Guitterrez teaches English Language Arts and Social Studies at R.J. Vial Elementary School and has 18 years of experience. She wants to show students that they are capable of anything they set their minds to. She believe it's important for them to understand that it's okay to make mistakes along the way because that's how we grow and learn.

“Molding minds and air-dry clay"

Bridget Summers teaches visual arts at Lakewood Elementary School and has 18 years of experience. She found her way into teaching after exploring different career paths. Her natural ability to work with kids, combined with her love for creativity, made teaching the perfect fit.

“Every student deserves a fair opportunity."

Jordan Dauphin teaches Advanced TV Broadcasting at the Satellite Center and has four years of experience. She looks forward to her students showing growth in their independence, creativity, and communication skills - skills that will help them excel in their future regardless of what industry then plan to pursue. She believes if they are able to understand who they are and what they value, they'll be able to speak up for themselves, hone in on the things they enjoy, and change the things that they don't.

“Inspiring exceptional minds to discover more"

Katie Martinez teaches English at Harry Hurst Middle School and has 10 years of experience. She sponsors the Beta Club and the Chick-Fil-A Leadership Academy at the school and has wanted to be a teacher since childhood - even teaching her Beanie Babies how to read!

“Inspiring and encouraging lifelong learners"

Madeline Evers is a literacy interventionist for third, fourth, and fifth graders at Norco Elementary School and has 8 years of experience. She credits her passion for reading from teachers who helped her pick books that interested her. Her dream for her students is to find their love for reading, and she hopes to expose her students to the genres and authors that may interest them.

“A lesson learned, a lifetime changed"

Holly Dauzat teaches sixth grade math at J.B. Martin Middle School and has ten years of experience. She has always wanted to be a teacher, inspired by the impact educators have on their students. Growing up in St. Charles Parish Public Schools, she was fortunate to learn from some of the very best, making her career choice an easy one.

“Educating to transform and to illuminate"

Kristie Gough teaches Talented Art and AP Studio Art at Hahnville High School and has 30 years of experience. She became a teacher for the fulfillment of shaping young minds and helping students grow into caring, problem-solving adults. Her dream for her students is to find the one thing that makes them happy while building their self-confidence.

Secretarial/Clerical Employee of the Year

Carolyn Berger, a School Office Specialist at Destrehan High School, has an exceptional ability to multitask, ensuring that everything, from managing substitute teachers to organizing schedules, is handled efficiently. Her strong communication skills and commitment to teamwork are key factors in the school's success.

Physical Plant Services Employee of the Year

Germaine Steib, a dependable and dedicated General Maintenance Worker for the district, plays a vital role in keeping our schools and sites ready for students and employees every day. Whether setting up classrooms, assisting with construction projects, or ensuring the safety of the school environment, his efforts help create a positive space for students to learn.

Specialist Educator Employee of the Year

Leigh Baltazar, Destrehan High School's Staff Development Coordinator, is an outstanding leader who continuously supports staff and students with her clear communication and guidance. She plays a key role in organizing training sessions, mentoring new teachers, and ensuring the day-to-day operations run smoothly.

Professional/Technical Employee of the Year

Mendy Van Hoven, Director of Special Education at the Central Office, is a passionate advocate for equity and inclusion, ensuring every student receives the support they need to succeed. She leads by example, actively engaging with students, staff, and families and consistently strives to remove barriers that hinder student success.

School Administrative Support Employee of the Year

Jennifer Gonzales, the dedicated Assistant Principal at Norco Elementary School, is praised for her unwavering support and commitment to success. She's not afraid to get her hands dirty, stepping in to help with any task, even taking a pie to the face during school events to show her support and bring a little fun to the staff.

School Support Employee of the Year

Monica Bourgeois, a paraeducator at Allemands Elementary School, is an outstanding advocate for students and a leader among her colleagues. She collaborates seamlessly with teachers, parents, and staff to ensure students get the support they need, particularly in inclusive classrooms where she helps build trusting relationships with every child.

Transportation Employee of the Year

Gary Boye, a school bus operator in the district, goes above and beyond to ensure the safety, comfort, and happiness of his students. His dependability is unmatched; whether covering extra routes or assisting with field trips, he is always ready to lend a hand.

Child Nutrition Services Employee of the Year

Kelly Llewellyn-Thomas, the Child Nutrition Manager at Destrehan High School, has taken on the challenge of managing a newly expanded kitchen and cafeteria with dedication and enthusiasm. She is committed to using every opportunity to build team morale, making the cafeteria an enjoyable place to work and eat.

Principal of the Year

Rebecca Matherne, principal of New Sarpy Elementary School, is focused on continuous improvement and supporting staff and students to reach their fullest potential. She is data-driven and values personalization of learning for each student.