Dr. Jenna Chiasson, Deputy Superintendent, Office of Teaching & Learning | Louisiana Department of Education
The Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE) has announced the 2025 Students of the Year, recognizing three outstanding students from different educational levels. The ceremony took place at The Cook Hotel and Conference Center in Baton Rouge, where all 24 regional finalists were also honored.
Louisiana State Superintendent of Education Dr. Cade Brumley stated, “Each of these students have distinguished themselves through exceptional academic performance, leadership, and service. They are proof that hard work and high expectations yield extraordinary results.”
The LDOE, in collaboration with the Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE), annually acknowledges students who demonstrate excellence in academics, leadership, and service. This year’s honorees include one student each from elementary, middle, and high school.
Mary Mack Thornton from Caddo Parish was named the elementary school Student of the Year. Attending Eden Gardens Elementary in BESE District 4, Thornton maintains a 4.0 GPA while actively participating in various school and community activities. She is known for her leadership skills and aspires to become an otolaryngologist.
Rylann Renee Viator from Vermilion Parish received recognition as the middle school Student of the Year. A student at Erath Middle in BESE District 7, Viator excels academically while engaging in athletics and arts. She is a leader within her school community and advocates for responsible social media use among peers.
Neal Pramod Tandon from Jefferson Parish was honored as the high school Student of the Year. He attends Haynes Academy in BESE District 1 and is involved in multiple organizations both locally and statewide. Tandon played a role in developing House Bill 577 aimed at protecting minors' data privacy on social media platforms.
BESE President Ronnie Morris commented on their achievements: “Today, we honor not only academic excellence but the promise these students hold for Louisiana’s future.”
Earlier this year, finalists were selected based on criteria such as academic achievement, leadership qualities, character assessment, and community service involvement. Selection committees reviewed electronic portfolios along with writing samples before conducting interviews to evaluate communication skills.
All schools across Louisiana can nominate candidates who then compete through various levels leading up to state recognition.
Alerts Sign-up