Dr. Ernise Singleton, Assistant Superintendent, Office of Career & College Readiness | Louisiana Department of Education
The Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE) has recognized several education professionals for their contributions to supporting students, teachers, and families across the state. The announcement included honorees in categories such as school support employees and school health service providers. Additionally, schools excelling in student physical activity were celebrated.
Donella Wagner, a custodian at Raintree Elementary in St. Mary Parish Schools, was named the 2025 Louisiana Outstanding School Support Employee of the Year. Wagner was chosen from an impressive group of finalists representing various school systems throughout Louisiana.
The award honors support staff who go beyond their duties to serve schools and families. Eligible roles include clerical staff, custodians, food service workers, maintenance staff, paraprofessionals, bus drivers, and aides.
Sue Lyn Simpson received recognition as the 2025 Louisiana School Health Service Provider of the Year for her work as a physical therapist with Ascension Public Schools. Her selection came from a dedicated group of finalists due to her significant contributions to student health and wellness.
Eligible professionals for this award category include occupational therapists, physical therapists, speech-language pathologists, audiologists, nurses, nurse practitioners, licensed practical nurses, and licensed behavioral health providers (LCSW/LMSW), LPCs, and psychologists.
Furthermore, six schools were highlighted as finalists for the Louisiana School Physical Activity Award:
- Plantation Park Elementary in Bossier Parish under Principal Rachel Stroud
- Homer High in Claiborne Parish led by Principal Alexandria Feaster
- East Feliciana STEAM Academy in East Feliciana Parish under Principal Kimberly J. Glascock
- South Live Oak Elementary in Livingston Parish with Principal Amy Savage
- New Orleans Military and Maritime Academy in Orleans Parish led by Principal Alexis Long
- Bonne Ecole Elementary in St. Tammany Parish under Principal Julie Lupo
This award recognizes elementary and secondary schools implementing outstanding physical activity programs that engage students throughout the day through classes and other activities involving family and community participation along with staff involvement.
The honorees were acknowledged at a meeting of the Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education on June 3rd followed by a reception at the Old State Capitol.
For additional details or inquiries about these awards contact excellenteducators@la.gov or visit LDOE’s awards webpage.
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