Your Baton Rouge School Guide
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Abundance of FREE RESOURCES helps
EastBatonRouge ParishLibrary
POWER STUDENT SUCCESS
By Amanda McElfresh | amcelfresh@theadvocate.com This article is brought to you by the East Baton Rouge Parish Library.
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or area families, the East Baton Rouge Parish Library is more than a place to borrow books. It’s also a hub of academic support, creative exploration and lifelong learning. Mary Stein, assistant library director for programs, outreach and collections, said EBRPL is proud to meet the needs of every learner, whether they are avid readers, reluctant readers or students who need extra help. “Our goal is that kids find something they like to read. We never judge their choices. If they want to read graphic novels or listen to books, that’s great because they are still consuming information,” Stein said. “It gets them into the habit of wanting to find out what happens next. You see the lightbulb go off and then they start not only consuming information, but becoming creative thinkers and problem solvers.” Aside from reading materials – in print, via audio and through digital downloads – EBRPL has thousands of free educational resources, from online homework help and practice versions of standardized tests to lessons on how to play a new sport or instrument. Access begins with a library card, which every East Baton Rouge Parish child can obtain with the help of a parent or legal guardian, as required by state law. Stein said the library’s online practice versions of exams like the ACT, SAT, PSAT and high school equivalency tests have proven to be especially helpful, since they let students see when their answers were incorrect, identify strengths and weaknesses and prepare strategically without the cost of test prep services. “This also means they aren’t taking a test before they are truly ready,” she said. “It gives them a tool to plan their studies going forward.” That specific type of guidance is also available through Homework Louisiana, a free online service with personalized academic assistance in key subjects. The tutoring sessions are tailored to each student’s grade and individual needs, and Stein said they also have benefited parents who want to help their children. Families can access this wealth of resources online at www.ebrpl.com/homeworkhelp. “The online tutors are vetted and observed, and parents can be sure that the content is safe, secure and verified,” Stein said. “This is a safe space for kids and adults to get help when they need it.” EBRPL is equally focused on enrichment opportunities. Kids who are interested in music, the arts, sports, podcasting or even filmmaking can access classes and mini-courses in person. For kids with special needs, EBRPL provides adaptive tools such as text-to-speech technology and apps that make reading and research more accessible. “We’ve got the kids covered in East Baton Rouge Parish,” Stein said. “We have subject-specific content for all grade levels and we can serve the content in a way that works for them. Our in-person programs give kids an opportunity to do hands-on activities that enhance their critical thinking skills. We also have resources for parents and teachers. We are trying to help build capacity within the educational network because all of us want kids to succeed every day.”
For more info visit EBRPL.com
Central Private students excel thanks to faithbased culture, academic support and engagement opportunities
By Amanda McElfresh | amcelfresh@theadvocate.com This article is brought to you by Central Private.
• 100% College acceptance percentage •1.6+ million Scholarship dollars earned in 2024
Accredited by SAIS, Cognia, LHSAA Member School, Average Act Score of 28 for College Bound Seniors, 40+ Dual Enrollment Courses, 100% Graduation Rate, 7 Spirit Teams, 75 Faculty Members with 24 Faculty with advanced degrees, 75% of students (6-12) participate in sports, GPA average of 3.68, 10 sports offered, College Prep and Honors Courses Offered, PK-5th have music, art, tech, PE, and library. House System for Grades 6-8, Member of 5 Academic and Honor Societies, 5 Leadership and Service Clubs, Sports Media Team, Youth Legislature, Choir Club and Drumline
ENROLLMENT
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or nearly six decades, Central Private has cultivated college-ready graduates in a safe, nurturing and faithbased environment. Established in 1967, the school serves 640 students across two campuses, offering quality education from PK3 through 12th grade. Academic alignment is a core feature of Central Private’s approach. Lower and Upper School staff work closely to ensure there are no gaps as students progress. Enrichment and classroom teachers collaborate to address the needs of students who need additional support. An emphasis on college readiness in the Upper School has led to significant gains. “We have almost tripled the number of dual enrollment offerings since we partnered with Northwestern,” said Dana Russell, Head of the Upper School. “Our ACT scores have skyrocketed as well. In October, we had five students who scored over 30 and one who scored a 33.” Russell said that success has come after a curriculum revamp and a renewed focus on academic supports, including one-onone tutoring sessions, more science offerings and math labs in 6-12 grades. In addition to traditional coursework, Central Private students learn essential technology skills through Microsoft and Google platforms, while a sophomore financial literacy course teaches budgeting, saving and decision-making. Lower and Middle School students are learning about 3D printing, robotics and artificial intelligence. Tessie Chambers, Head of the Lower School, said this
632 GRADES
comprehensive approach begins in the Early Childhood program. “Our three- and four-year-olds have a full schedule that includes art, computer technology, library and PE classes on a weekly basis. Central Private’s Early Childhood program is extremely strong, in large part due to our use of the Abeka curriculum and highly qualified staff members,” Chambers said. “Our three- and four-year-old classrooms are structured very similar to our kindergarten classrooms, so it’s a very easy transition.” Faith and character education underscore everything at Central Private. Lower School students have monthly devotionals focused on a Bible verse, discipline, virtue and positive reinforcement. Middle and Upper School students have Bible study classes, with an emphasis on leadership and building connections with others. “We’re not affiliated with one particular church or doctrine,” Russell said. “It’s a faith-based system based on the belief that the Bible is God’s holy word. We teach Scripture, not specific denominational beliefs.” Central Private is accredited by the Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS). Sumner said accreditation is a rigorous process that validates the school’s high academic and operational standards. Applications are open for 2026-27. Prospective families can schedule a tour or learn more at www.centralprivate.org.
Gurney Rd. & Centerra Rd.,Central, LA | (225) 261-3341 | www.centralprivate.org
Pre-K3-12 STUDENT/ TEACHER RATIO
9:1
Applications for the 2026-2027 school year will continue to be accepted and reviewed throughout the year.
YEAR FOUNDED
1967 LEARN MORE
MontessoriSchool of Baton Rouge blends multi-age learning with global awareness By Amanda McElfresh | amcelfresh@theadvocate.com This article is brought to you by Montessori School of Baton Rouge.
ENROLLMENT
78
GRADES
50 Primary Pre-K 3-K 28 Toddlers 18 - 36 mos
STUDENT/ TEACHER RATIO
F
or 60 years, the Montessori School of Baton Rouge has used an innovative approach to form young minds. With multi-age grouping and a focus on global education and differentiated instruction, this is a place where children thrive. The school has a Toddler Program for children 18 months to 3 years of age, and a Primary Program for children ages 3 to 6. Director Molly Williams shared more. What makes MSBR unique? The teachers are guides. Learning happens as students interact with materials that require them to use problemsolving and inquiry. The prepared environment leads to discovery and conversation. Many current trends in traditional education are found in Montessori, such as individual learning plans and literacy aligned with the science of reading. That proves that this type of education has merit and value. What feedback do you hear from parents? Parents choose us because we are extremely diverse. We’re one of the only non-faith based private schools in the city, so we
attract families from all faiths, languages and ethnicities. One question from prospective families is how their children will transition to their next school, which is likely to be a traditional campus. Our children learn to respect themselves, respect others and love learning. That equips them well to move on to the next setting and adapt to a new environment. As Maria Montessori said, “The education of even a very small child, therefore, does not aim at preparing him for school, but for life.” What do you look for when hiring MSBR teachers? We look for people who are trained through an accredited Montessori training center or willing to complete it. Most Montessori teachers have a similar vibe and values. They love to be in nature and exploring the environment around them. I find that teachers with a global view who see themselves as citizens of the world are good candidates for this model. Montessori School of Baton Rouge has a rolling admissions process. Visit www.montessoribr.org to learn more or schedule a tour.
8227 Wimbledon Ave. Baton Rouge, LA 70810 | (225) 766-9942 | www.montessoribr.org
8:1 Primary 5:1 Toddler
APPLICATION DEADLINE
Rolling YEAR FOUNDED
1966 LEARN MORE
OurLadyofMercy offers big opportunities
• 2025 Quiz Bowl Winner • Robotics Tournament Winner • CHS Math Tournament Individual & Team winners • Beta Club award winners
ENROLLMENT By Amanda McElfresh | amcelfresh@theadvocate.com This article is brought to you by Our Lady of Mercy Catholic School.
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ur Lady of Mercy Catholic School is proud to partner with parents to nurture each child’s God-given gifts in an authentic environment. Rooted in faith, the school forms the whole child through prayer, knowledge and service. Academically, students are challenged to excel through collaboration, instruction and technology, while faith is lived out through service, leadership and community engagement. Principal Allyson LaBorde shared more about Our Lady of Mercy’s approach to education.
How is the Catholic faith lived out on campus?
We celebrate Mass every Friday offering students and staff time together with our focus on the Eucharist while practicing our faith. We begin and end our days with prayer, and also include prayer and reflection at other times during each school day. We bring all things back to God’s purpose for our lives. It is important that we teach students the importance of a life-long relationship with God and that we can always lean on Him.
What are some of the school’s main priorities?
Students are with us for a large part of their days, and it is important that we partner with families at they develop the skills to become lifelong learners. We balance academic rigor and enrichment opportunities, making the routine of a school day a positive experience. Students are busy with activities
Photos by Darlene Aguillard
and have more cultural exposure than ever before, and it is of great importance that their time with us is focused on positive learning experiences.
How does the school incorporate technology?
Technology and responsible usage of that tool is and will be such a large part of our students’ lives. Our earliest learners have more limited exposure with our middle school students having school issued iPads for the majority of their school work. However, we strike a balance of integrating technology wisely, with necessary usage as well as the use of pencil and paper at all grade levels. Students will grow up in a world of advanced technology, but we do not want them to think that should be their only focus.
What else do you want families to know about Our Lady of Mercy?
I always say, we are a big school with a small school feel. We want to really know our kids so we can know how to best help them grow. Our school theme this year is “Welcome like Christ”, and in that spirit, we are a very welcoming community. We want all students to find their niche here and enter high school having been exposed to the things that are of greatest interest to them.
980 GRADES
3Y-8
STUDENT/ TEACHER RATIO 3YO 9:1 Pre-K-1 10:1 2-8 25:1
YEAR FOUNDED
1953
Visit www.olomschool.org to learn more about Our Lady of Mercy.
400 Marquette Ave., Baton Rouge, LA 70806 | www.olomschool.org
LEARN MORE
Faith, education and opportunity align to create success at
Parkview BaptistSchool
By Amanda McElfresh | amcelfresh@theadvocate.com This article is brought to you by Parkview Baptist School.
• 100% College acceptance percentage • 5 National Merit Scholars in recent years • 8.2+ million dollars in scholarships - Class of 2025 • 70 state championships • 108 district titles • 20 signed athletes in 2025 • World Championship Robotics Team
ENROLLMENT
1,101
S
erving students from infants through 12th grade, Parkview Baptist School is built on the four As: Abundant Life, Academics, Arts and Athletics – a framework designed to prepare students not only for college and careers, but for life and eternity. Abundant Life is at the heart of the Parkview Baptist experience. Faith is woven into daily campus life, shaping character, relationships and decision-making. Students are encouraged to grow spiritually while developing empathy, leadership and resilience. “Our ultimate goal every day is to turn out kids who will be good citizens of the world,” said Superintendent John Kennedy. In Academics, Parkview Baptist offers a rigorous curriculum supported by nurturing faculty. Special attention is given in Early Childhood and Elementary levels to language acquisition, math concepts and inquiry-based science lessons. Middle School students take part in science labs, writing conferences and technology-based projects. In High School, Advanced Placement, Honors and Dual Enrollment courses are offered. The Arts at Parkview Baptist offer creative outlets that build confidence and emotional well-being. Last year, the school opened a Performing Arts and Academic Center for theater, music, dance and behind-the-scenes production work.
GRADES
“Having a strong arts program is important because this is something they can do for themselves, not necessarily for a grade,” said Martha Long, Director of Educational Operations. “We want them to find positive aspects in everything they do, and many of them thrive and come into their own through the arts.” Meanwhile, in Athletics, Parkview Baptist is a Louisiana powerhouse, with 70 state championship titles since 1981, including ones last fall in volleyball and girls’ cross country. Coaches often speak about students’ ability to push one another, bounce back from tough defeats and focus on progress over perfection. “When you watch our games, you see the team holding hands on the court, hugging each other and talking to each other. Those little things really help to calm everybody’s nerves,” Volleyball Head Coach Allison Leake said. From classrooms to chapels, studios to stadiums, Parkview Baptist offers a comprehensive experience rooted in lifelong values. Visit www.parkviewbaptist.com to learn more about Parkview Baptist School.
5750 Parkview Church Rd., Baton Rouge, LA 70816 | (225) 291-2500 | www.parkviewbaptist.com
6 Weeks – 12th Grade STUDENT/ TEACHER RATIO
15 to 1
YEAR FOUNDED
1981 LEARN MORE
L
Small classes, big opportunities:
St.JamesEpiscopal
thrives in the heart of Baton Rouge By Amanda McElfresh | amcelfresh@theadvocate.com This article is brought to you by St. James Episcopal Day School.
•Three-time National Blue Ribbon School (2009, 2015, 2022)
ENROLLMENT
300 GRADES
ocated on Convention Street, St. James Episcopal Day School is a hidden gem in downtown Baton Rouge, offering young learners a faith-based education in an intimate and joyful setting. Now, thanks to a successful capital campaign and a clear vision for the future, the school is embracing campus improvements while continuing to nurture the whole child through academics, enrichment and leadership opportunities. Head of School Bridget Henderson said the capital campaign raised $3.1 million – enough to modernize existing spaces and make the campus more well-suited to the needs of its students. “We now have a lush green playground with rolling hills and a custom-made play structure for our students. We also have a custom track with red tricycles for them to ride,” Henderson said. “Until people step on campus, they don’t realize how big we are, yet the environment still feels intimate. It’s this little oasis of education.” Henderson said the school’s location provides a unique advantage. Teachers frequently extend learning beyond the classroom walls, taking students on excursions that connect curriculum to the real world. “Our kindergarten students do a project on bikes. As part of that, they go around downtown, walk the bike trails and learn about them from a safety lens. Our fourth graders studied architecture last year and went to all of the churches downtown to learn about the different designs and aspects of each one,” she said. “They also did a water project last year, so we took them to LSU’s Water Campus. The museums are fantastic. We’ve been able to make downtown our classroom.”
One of the hallmarks of St. James Episcopal is its low student-to-teacher ratios. The average ratio is seven-to-one and is even lower in the day school and early childhood sections. Those numbers create a strong sense of community that makes transitioning from one year to the next a seamless process. “There’s a real sense that things are settled here and we know where we are headed as a school,” Henderson said. “The first day this year felt like we were already in October because of the way we have built the culture. Everyone picked up right where they left off.” The school’s mission emphasizes developing the whole child, which includes enrichment opportunities in areas such as music, Spanish, STEAM, drama and broadcast. As the oldest students on campus, fifth graders serve as leaders who mentor younger students through a buddy system and embrace the responsibility of being “seniors” on campus. “Our fourth graders are now partnering with PreK-4 so they can start a more robust buddy program with those two grade levels,” Henderson said. “All of these things help our students feel connected to the school and want to stay here.” At St. James Episcopal Day School, we believe childhood is a sacred time—rich with wonder, growth, and joy. Our Early Childhood through fifth grade model is designed to honor this season of life, focusing on the whole child in an environment where academic excellence and emotional well-being go hand in hand. Visit www.stjameseds.org to learn more about St. James Episcopal Day School.
445 Convention St., Baton Rouge, LA 70802 | (225) 344-0805 | www.stjameseds.org
12 mos-5 STUDENT/ TEACHER RATIO
7:1
APPLICATION DEADLINE
Rolling Admissions YEAR FOUNDED
1948 LEARN MORE
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Paid internships and unique enrichment programs help prepare
St.JamesParishSchools students for life after high school By Stevie Cavalier Licciardi | stevie.licciardi@theadvocate.com This article is brought to you by St. James Parish Schools.
hrough partnerships with local businesses and expanded enrichment programs, St. James Parish Schools are giving students meaningful experiences that help prepare them for life after graduation. These opportunities allow students to explore career interests, build practical skills and make informed decisions about their future. High school seniors can apply for paid internships with industry partners, gaining workplace experience while in school. Before placement, students complete an application and interview process, followed by full onboarding with their host employer. Businesses then work closely with Lutcher and St. James High Schools to ensure internship schedules align with academic requirements. “The life skills students gain through workplace internships are invaluable,” said Superintendent Chris Kimball. “They also give students a chance to confirm their interests before investing time and money in a college degree.” Beyond internships, St. James Parish Schools offer handson learning opportunities across the parish. At the College and Career Center, students can explore fields such as welding,
culinary arts, health services, agriculture, and business math. Students also operate the C3 Café, applying lessons in accounting, customer service, and food preparation while running a real business. The district also prioritizes athletics and the arts. Younger students can participate in the Academic, Visual, and Performing Arts Magnet Program at Paulina and Gramercy Elementary Schools, while older students benefit from facilities like the parish Aquatic Center, which supports competitive swim teams in grades 4–12. Recent campus upgrades at both high schools further support student growth. Lutcher High School has completed major gym renovations and is upgrading its softball field and locker rooms, while St. James High School is building a broadcast media studio to train students using industry-standard equipment. “Our goal is to help students align their schedules with their career aspirations,” said Chief Academic Officer Anne Detillier. “By junior and senior year, they are already laying the groundwork for what comes next.” For more information, visit www.stjames.k12.la.us.
1876 West Main St., Lutcher LA 70071 | (225) 258-4500 | www.stjames.k12.la.us
ENROLLMENT
3,173 GRADES
Pre-K – 12
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St.Luke’s EpiscopalSchool blends faith,
academics and service in a nurturing community By Amanda McElfresh | amcelfresh@theadvocate.com This article is brought to you by St. Luke’s Episcopal School.
• 2023 National Blue Ribbon School
ENROLLMENT
155
GRADES
Pre-K3-8 STUDENT/ TEACHER RATIO
S
ince 1957, St. Luke’s Episcopal School has provided a high-quality, faith-based education in a warm and nurturing environment. Today, under the leadership of Head of School Mitch Bilbe, the school continues to prepare students not only for academic success but for meaningful lives grounded in service, leadership and community. Everyone is on the same page as far as who we are and who we want to be,” Bilbe said. “It’s a holistic approach where we’re not just teaching in the classroom. Pretty much everything we do here is a life lesson.” At the heart of that holistic approach is a commitment to meeting children where they are. A Learning Lab provides targeted support for students who need extra math or reading help, as well as enrichment for those who are ready to be challenged. “Our small class sizes really help teachers identify which students need which supports,” Bilbe said. “When you have 15 kids in a class as opposed to 25 or 30, those learning differences are more apparent, and teachers can intervene earlier.” In addition, St. Luke’s has taken intentional steps to make
its education more accessible to families. Recent tuition adjustments have lowered overall costs, allowing more families to experience the school’s distinctive combination of academic excellence, personal attention and faith-centered community. “We want families to feel that a St. Luke’s education is not only meaningful, but attainable,” Bilbe said. As an Episcopal school, spiritual formation is central to the St. Luke’s experience. Students attend weekly chapel services with age-appropriate programming. Religion classes use the Godly Play curriculum, encouraging students to explore their faith in meaningful ways. Daily prayers and faith practices are woven into school life. In addition, leadership development is encouraged at every grade level. Younger students serve in the chapel and take on classroom jobs, while older students lead through a buddy program. Students are also encouraged to serve others through outreach efforts such as toy drives, flood relief, food collections and support for military families. Visit www.stlukesbrschool.org to learn more.
8833 Goodwood Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA 70806 | (225) 927-8601 | www.stlukesbrschool.org
7:1
APPLICATION DEADLINE
Rolling Admissions YEAR FOUNDED
1957 LEARN MORE
St.ThomasMore prepares students for lifelong success
through academics, faith and service By Amanda McElfresh | amcelfresh@theadvocate.com This article is brought to you by St. Thomas More School.
• Education Insider Top Catholic School 2025 • National Blue Ribbon School 2016
ENROLLMENT
563 GRADES
A
t St. Thomas More, Principal Ashley McDaniel sees every day as an opportunity to nurture not only strong students but also compassionate individuals ready to
serve. “We talk a lot about kindness and manners. It always makes me proud to see those conversations in action,” McDaniel said. “Kids hold open a door for someone or punch in a key code if someone has their hands full. Our students are excited when there’s someone new joining their class. They want to do the right thing, and our parents are so supportive. When you wrap all of that together, it creates a wonderful community.” That community will be enhanced when STM opens its ACCESS Special Education Program in the 2026-27 school year. ACCESS – Achieving Catholic Curriculum Through Equity, Support and Success – will serve students with exceptionalities in grades 2 through 8 and offer instruction in small-group settings, with opportunities for inclusion in general education classes and enrichment courses. Applications are now open. Beyond the warmth and inviting nature at STM, the school has a strong academic program. Beginning in 1st grade, students
are ability-grouped in language arts and math, allowing advanced learners to be challenged while those who need additional support receive the help they need. “Students who are not as strong yet or maybe have a learning difference are in smaller classes,” McDaniel explained. “A reading specialist works with them, and individualized instruction goes on every single day within those groups.” STM also offers an on-campus reading resource program through eighth grade that is included in tuition, where students work in small groups for extra support and encouragement. Middle school students benefit from a full science lab for hands-on exploration of the concepts they are learning in class. All teachers emphasize collaborative projects and cooperative learning, and the effective use of technology to enhance both. “Our students have to be able to work together with their peers in adulthood,” McDaniel said. “We start laying that foundation now.” Visit www.stmbr.org/school to earn more about St. Thomas More.
11400 Sherbrook Dr., Baton Rouge, LA 70815 | (225) 275-2820 | www.stmbr.org
Pre-K3-8 AVERAGE CLASS SIZE Preschool 13 K-2 18 3-8 25
YEAR FOUNDED
1960 LEARN MORE
L
ThriveAcademy’s
Residential Model Builds Structure, Stability and Success By Amanda McElfresh | amcelfresh@theadvocate.com This article is brought to you by Thrive Academy.
• Tops Opportunity • Tops Performance • ACT Scholarship • $100,000 Scholarship dollars earned in 2024 • 70% College acceptance percentage
ENROLLMENT
180
GRADES
7–12 earning at Thrive Academy doesn’t stop at the final bell. For most students at the state-sponsored public boarding school, education continues in the dorms, on athletic fields and through daily routines that build skills extending beyond academics. More than 97% of Thrive students live on campus during the week, participating in a six-day residential program designed to blend structure, support and enrichment. After classes, they shift into afternoons that balance downtime with clubs, tutoring and extracurriculars. Most students return home on weekends and during school breaks. “Students can just be kids and focus on their activities and their studies,” said Residential Director Tierra Harrison. “They don’t have to worry about acting as the head of the household or where their next meal is coming from.” That holistic approach of helping foster a child’s whole development extends to athletics. Thrive has teams in football, basketball, track and field, baseball, softball and volleyball, who compete against charter and independent schools. Coaches emphasize discipline, teamwork, accountability and leadership.
“The structure is a huge benefit to the kids,” said Athletic Director and Head Football Coach Devon Breaux. “The things they are learning today are not just about a particular sport or game. These lessons can be applied to how they will need to conduct themselves in the real world.” The Thrive model also consistently delivers strong academic results. Students regularly outperform state averages on LEAP assessments, and Thrive has earned state recognitions as a Comeback School and Top Gains campus. An independent study last year found that Thrive students are significantly more likely to graduate from high school and earn college credits than their peers from similar backgrounds. “The founding mission of Thrive is to provide underresourced students with the same opportunities that students from well-resourced communities have. We have proof that when these resources are provided, students can flourish,” said Superintendent Paul Sampson. Visit www.thrivebr.org to apply or learn more.
2585 Brightside Dr, Baton Rouge, LA 70820 | (225) 367-6855 | www.thrivebr.org
STUDENT/ TEACHER RATIO 15:1
APPLICATION DEADLINE
Rolling YEAR FOUNDED
2011 LEARN MORE
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S u n d ay, d e c e m b e r 10, 2023
1cn
2024 NCA A GYMNASTICS CHAMPIONSHIP
H E ISM A N
DICKIES ARENA • FORT WORTH, TEXAS
2023 PRESENTATION CEREMONY
T ROPH Y LINCOLN CENTER, NEW YORK
STAFF PHOTO BY MICHAEL JOHNSON
2020 CFP TITLE GAME SPECIAL EDITION
LSU gymnastics wins first national title in program’s 50th year BY SCOTT RABALAIS Staff writer
FORT WORTH,Texas — The LSU gymnastics team’s motto all season was two simple words, which were printed on purple wristbands worn by its athletes and coaches: “Get there.” Saturday, the Tigers changed that to “Got there.” Champions. NCAA champions, at long last. Four times a national runner-up, LSU broke through on its 10th trip to the NCAA finals to win its first gymnastics national title in the 50th season of the program. The Tigers overcame a couple of missed routines and a small deficit to Utah after three events with a sizzling final rotation on balance beam. LSU scored a 49.7675, a record score on that event in an NCAA final, to finish at 198.225. The previous beam record was 49.750 by UCLA in 2018.
Top: LSU gymnast Aleah Finnegan starts to cry as she realizes her routine on the balance beam will clinch the title at the NCAA gymnastics championships on Saturday at Dickies Arena in Fort Worth, Texas. Above: The LSU gymnastics team celebrates after a routine on the bars Saturday at Dickies Arena in Fort Worth, Texas. LSU won its first-ever NCAA championship by beating California, Utah and Florida. STAFF PHOTOS BY MICHAEL JOHNSON
California was second at 197.850, while Utah slipped to third at 197.800. Florida was fourth at 197.4375. “I’m just so happy for them,” a nearly speechless LSU coach Jay Clark said in the post-meet news conference at Dickies Arena. “To see them experience that feeling of finally getting over the hump and getting to exhale, it was just clutch. “We made it interesting in a couple of spots. Every team was out there fighting for their lives and it could have gone any of four ways. As much as I feel for what happened to Oklahoma in the semifinals, it made for a championship that became so packed with emotion, because every team believed they could do it.” Oklahoma, unbeaten and the No. 1 national seed, shockingly was eliminated in Thursday’s semifinals, falling victim to its worst vault routine in 16 years as Utah and Florida surged past the Sooners. LSU and California came out of Thursday’s first semifinal.
ä See LSU, page 5C
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