Local teachers named semifinalists for Louisiana Teacher Award

BATON ROUGE, La. (WNTZ) – The Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE) has announced its semifinalists for Teacher and Principal of the Year, as well as finalists for Early Childhood Teacher, Leader of the Year, and New Teacher of the Year. Among those recognized are several Central Louisiana (CenLa) locals who are one step closer to receiving the state’s top honors.

Pamela Walker, principal at Lessie Moore Elementary in Rapides Parish, has been named a semifinalist for Louisiana Principal of the Year. Walker has demonstrated leadership excellence, guiding her school to significant improvements and fostering a positive learning environment for students and staff.

Armetrice Williams, principal at M. R. Weaver Elementary in Natchitoches Parish, also earned a spot as a semifinalist for Louisiana Principal of the Year. Williams is noted for her commitment to student success and her efforts to create an inclusive school culture that values diversity and academic achievement.

In the Early Childhood Teacher of the Year category, Shannon Johns, who works at Cenla Christian Childcare Centers across multiple locations in Rapides Parish, has been named a finalist. Johns’ dedication to nurturing young learners and her leadership in early childhood education set her apart as an exemplary educator in the region.

Lisa Haymon, principal at Leesville High School in Vernon Parish, is a semifinalist for Louisiana Principal of the Year. Haymon’s strategic leadership has led to notable advancements in her school, particularly in student academic outcomes and overall school culture.

These CenLa educators, alongside their peers, are recognized for their dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to providing quality education to students across the state. The overall honorees for Teacher, Principal, and Leader of the Year will be announced in July during the 19th Annual Cecil J. Picard Educator Excellence Gala.