Survey data found teens are open to guidance and support from parents.
TEENS ARE ONLINE MORE THAN EVER —
let’s keep them safe.
Top Concerns Teens Report:
• Cyberbullying
• Scams & Fraud
• Inappropriate Content
• Privacy & Data Security
Cox’s Commitment:
• Stronger parental controls
• Tools to monitor usage
• Resources to spark conversations
How often do middle-aged adults discuss online safety with their child/children (ages 13-17)
58% discuss online safety with their child/children several times a week, or daily.
Abundance of FREE RESOURCES helps
East Baton Rouge Parish Library
POWER STUDENT SUCCESS
By Amanda McElfresh | amcelfresh@theadvocate.com
This article is brought to you by the East Baton Rouge Parish Library.
For 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 and re available to help students balance their responsibilities. 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.”
Welcome to East Baton Rouge Parish Schools—a place where curiosity sparks discovery, creativity comes alive and every student’s potential is celebrated. Our schools are vibrant communities where students, families and educators work together to create opportunities, embrace differences and achieve greatness.
From language immersion experiences and innovative magnet programs to dual enrollment, career-focused training, gifted education and early college pathways, we offer tuition-free opportunities that help every learner follow their passions and reach their goals.
At East Baton Rouge Parish Schools, we believe in pushing boundaries, nurturing talent and celebrating the unique contributions of every student. Together, we are turning ambition into achievement, curiosity into innovation and promise into lasting success. Every day, we are shaping a future filled with possibility, growth and excellence—and we can’t wait to see what our students will accomplish next.
LaMont Cole Superintendent, East Baton Rouge Parish School System
The East Baton Rouge Parish School System stands as a cornerstone of public education in Louisiana, proudly serving one of the state’s most dynamic, diverse and resilient communities. As the second largest school system in Louisiana, we provide a vibrant network of schools where every child has the opportunity to thrive.
From the very first day of early childhood programs to the moment students walk across the graduation stage, the district opens doors to endless possibilities. Families can choose from a wide range of learning pathways, including nationally recognized magnet programs, gifted and talented services and advanced academic tracks. At the same time, students benefit from robust workforce development opportunities—earning industry-based certifications, participating in dual enrollment courses and gaining handson training that connects classroom learning to real-world success. Whether their next step is higher education or a high-demand career, students are prepared to excel in an increasingly competitive and fast-paced world.
The East Baton Rouge Parish School System also recognizes that a wellrounded education goes far beyond academics. With exceptional programs in the arts, athletics and extracurricular activities, students are encouraged to discover their passions, build lasting friendships and grow as confident, community-minded individuals. Strong partnerships with families, local businesses and community organizations create a powerful network of support that amplifies opportunities for every learner.
At the heart of it all is a steadfast commitment to excellence. The district is focused on creating safe, welcoming campuses; delivering innovative and inspiring instruction; and ensuring equitable access to the tools and resources every child deserves. Grounded in the belief that every student holds limitless potential, the East Baton Rouge Parish School System is not just educating for today—it is empowering the leaders, innovators and visionaries of tomorrow.
LEARN MORE
Students thrive with creativity and challenges in East Baton Rouge Parish Gifted & Talented
By Amanda McElfresh | amcelfresh@theadvocate.com
is brought to you by
The East Baton Rouge Parish School System is at the forefront of nurturing academically advanced and artistically gifted students through its robust Gifted & Talented (G&T) programs, which are offered across prekindergarten through 12th grades.
The district offers multiple tailored tracks under the G&T umbrella:
• A gifted program for academically advanced students in all grades. The program includes compacted curriculum, higher-order thinking, enrichment and small class sizes for individualized learning.
• A talented arts program for students who show exceptional skill in visual arts, music or theatre. Students in this program are given creative platforms and performance opportunities and do not require academically gifted identification.
• A scholastic academy program designed to identify potential academic gifts in students in pre-kindergarten through sixth grade, offering a pathway into more advanced G&T services as they grow and progress.
• Great Scholars Academy, a separate accelerated track for middle and high schoolers that is adjacent to but distinct from the gifted program. Students learn from highly qualified teachers with a rigorous curriculum.
Parents, teachers and students can initiate free gifted & talented screenings year-round through the Gifted and Talented Office
Parents are urged to have their children undergo early screenings so they can benefit from targeted learning opportunities sooner. Gifted screenings are offered as early as three and four years old. Talented screenings begin in Kindergarten.
Students in G&T programs learn at a pace and depth suited to their abilities. Inside self-contained classrooms, lessons are tailored, engaging and challenging. For artistically inclined students, the Talented Arts program offers enriched instruction in visual, musical and dramatic arts, complete with showcases and creative exploration.
G&T program offerings span sites across all of East Baton Rouge Parish. Student placement is offered based on their home address. Elementary locations include Audubon, Brownfields, Cedarcrest, Crestworth, LaSalle, Magnolia Woods, McKinley, Northeast, Parkview, Shenandoah, Twin Oaks, Wedgewood, Wildwood and Woodlawn. Middle school sites are at Glasgow, Westdale and Woodlawn. McKinley and Woodlawn serve as the high school sites.
Through comprehensive screening, expert instruction and a range of specialized pathways, the East Baton Rouge Parish School System continues to unlock exceptional potential and nurture future leaders in academics and the arts.
To learn more, visit www.ebrgifted.org or call 225-929-8642.
This article
the East Baton Rouge Parish School System.
East Baton Rouge magnet programs prepare students for college, careers and beyond
The East Baton Rouge Parish School System’s magnet programs continue to stand out as some of the brightest offerings in the district. Serving students from prekindergarten through high school, magnet programs provide rigorous academics, unique themes and enriched learning environments that attract families from across the parish.
The programs have evolved into some of the district’s most sought-after programs, drawing thousands of applicants each year. With themes ranging from STEM and medical sciences to the arts, digital media and foreign language immersion, magnet programs in East Baton Rouge Parish give students the opportunity to pursue their passions while preparing for college and careers.
With 30 innovative theme-based programs, students can learn in environments that reflect their personal interests – building invaluable life skills and fostering a lifelong love of learning. Regardless of the grade level or program theme, magnet students experience hands-on learning, real-world applications of lessons and enrichment opportunities beyond the traditional classroom.
The district also works with business and community partners to ensure the magnet programs continue to thrive. Local companies, universities and nonprofits often collaborate with magnet schools, providing guest speakers, internships and mentoring opportunities. These connections help students see
links between their studies and future careers.
Entry into magnet programs is open to all students across East Baton Rouge Parish. However, admission is competitive and based on a combination of factors, including academic performance, interest in the program theme and space availability. Upcoming key dates and events are:
Magnet Showcase Week, Sept. 29-Oct. 3: Schools will host showcases and on-site tours for families to experience a day in the life of a magnet student.
Magnet Mania, Oct. 5, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.: Held at the Louisiana Art & Science Museum, this recruitment event includes free parking and museum admission, and a chance for eligible students to with a magnet seat at their school of choice if they meet all program requirements. Families will also have the opportunity to meet school staff, student ambassadors and community partners to learn more about magnet programs.
Priority Application Period, Oct. 6-Dec.5: Applications are open for the 2026-27 school year, and many magnet program seats are filled during this window.
Visit www.ebrmagnet.org or call 225-922-5443 for more information.
By Amanda McElfresh | amcelfresh@theadvocate.com
clear
This article is brought to you by the East Baton Rouge Parish School System.
• Magnet Merit Schools of Distinction and Excellence, Blue Ribbon and Green Ribbon
• Blue Ribbon and Green Ribbon
Dunham School
From first steps to final exams: Dunham makes the difference at every grade level
By Amanda McElfresh | amcelfresh@theadvocate.com
This article is brought to you by The Dunham School.
The Dunham School takes a whole-student approach to education, combining academic excellence with spiritual formation, creativity and character development. From the earliest years through graduation, students are encouraged to explore their unique gifts, think critically and engage deeply with their learning. Here is how Dunham tailors education to help each child reach their maximum potential.
Early Childhood
The theme-based curriculum is designed to meet the needs of two-year-olds, with a focus on early literacy, phonics, math, science, technology and gross motor skill development, as well as explorations in Bible, music, movement, world languages and art. The program runs five days a week, with 10- and 12-month options. In August 2025, The Dunham Early Childhood Center at Siegen opened as a second campus for two-year-olds at The Chapel on Siegen to accommodate growing demand.
Lower School
Dunham elementary students enjoy project- and inquirybased learning in math, literacy, social and global studies, science and Bible. Enrichment classes include physical education, art, music, library/media and Spanish. As an Apple Distinguished School, technology is integrated throughout the curricula. Lower School students develop leadership
skills through classroom responsibilities, service projects and mentorship.
Middle School
A wide range of activities are available at in the Dunham middle grades, but a favorite tradition is the House System. Each student is assigned to one of four houses named after the school’s founding families. House Points can be earned through academic achievements, extracurricular participation, house competitions and Field Day. Each Middle School faculty member also belongs to a House and may award points, with the belief that each student has unique gifts. Each May, the House with the most points claims the coveted Snoddy House Cup.
Upper School
This is where Dunham students find their voices and form lasting relationships as they grow in faith, confidence and selfknowledge. As they are mentored by skillful and compassionate teachers, Upper School students find shared interests and can participate in a leadership development program. The goal is to prepare all students for future success as Christian leaders who are ready to make a positive impact on the world.
Visit www.dunhamschool.org to learn more about The Dunham School.
• 100% College acceptance percentage.
• $17 Million Scholarship dollars earned in 2024.
• Apple Distinguished School; 34 AP Scholars (2025)
GEO Academies expands BRCC partnership, giving high schoolers a full college experience that ends with a degree
By Amanda McElfresh | amcelfresh@theadvocate.com
GEO Academies is taking its mission even further in 2025 through an expanded partnership with Baton Rouge Community College.
Under the new arrangement, all juniors and seniors at GEO Next Generation High School will attend college and career classes, as well as their high school courses, on BRCC’s Acadian campus.
“The main benefit for our scholars with the partnership is the opportunity for our students to get the college experience as a whole, while completing high school coursework that allows their families to save money on tuition and accelerate their time earning a degree,” Principal Shuanessy Matthews said. “Students not only get the academic experience with college coursework, but also the benefit of exposure to a full-time college career and student life on a campus environment.”
Since opening in 2019, GEO Next Generation has raised the bar for student achievement in Baton Rouge. In 2023, 10 percent of its graduates earned associate degrees before finishing high school. In 2024, that number doubled to 20 percent. This year, 30 percent of the graduating class earned associate degrees – a testament to the school’s unwavering commitment to academic excellence and early college access.
“Students are eager to earn their college credit while it is free in high school, which can lead to families saving a significant amount of money on tuition and fees,” Matthews said. “Earning an associate degree while in high school offers our scholars
the benefit of increased employment opportunities after high school, the possibility of having a higher earning potential and a faster entry into the workforce with valuable career-specific skills.”
In addition to tuition, GEO also provides its students with textbooks, transportation and necessary supports, including academic guidance, coaching and social counseling. That supportive environment begins at an early age. Overall, GEO Academies serves more than 2,300 K-12 students in four open enrollment charter schools: GEO Prep Academy, GEO Prep Mid-City Greater Baton Rouge, GEO Prep Baker and GEO Next Generation High.
Matthews said each school features personalized learning models, dedicated faculty and staff and community resources for unexpected challenges. The implementation of MicroAcademies means that scholars are placed in a model designed to ensure that their academic and social-emotional journey is unique to meet their needs.
“Our school primarily focuses on serving students in underserved communities, offering programs designed to close achievement gaps and provide accelerated college and career pathways at no cost to families,” she said. “This equity is critical for breaking cycles of poverty, promoting social mobility and unlocking individual and community potential.”
For more information, please visit www.geoacademies. org/geoacademiesgbr to learn more.
• 88% College acceptance percentage.
• $25 Million Scholarship dollars earned in 2024.
• Nov. 2024 Earned a “B” letter grade from the state (LDOE)
• Awarded the Innovative Education Award - LAPCS - 2023
2,400
GRADES
25:1
2013 YEAR FOUNDED STUDENT/ TEACHER RATIO
This article is brought to you by GEO Academies.
Shvanessy Matthews, Principal, GEO Academies
Our Lady of Mercy offers big opportunities
By Amanda McElfresh | amcelfresh@theadvocate.com
This article is brought to you by Our Lady of Mercy Catholic School.
Our 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
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.
Visit www.olomschool.org to learn more about Our Lady of Mercy.
2025 Quiz Bowl Winner • Robotics Tournament Winner • CHS Math Tournament Individual & Team winners
Beta Club award winners
YEAR FOUNDED STUDENT/ TEACHER RATIO ENROLLMENT 3Y-8 GRADES
Photos by Darlene Aguillard
St. Joseph’s Academy
builds confidence, connection and faith among young women
By Amanda McElfresh | amcelfresh@theadvocate.com
This article is brought to you by St. Joseph’s Academy.
St. Joseph’s Academy is the only all-girls school in Baton Rouge and a five-time National Blue Ribbon School. Founded in 1868 by the Sisters of St. Joseph, the Academy has spent more than 150 years cultivating an environment where Catholic faith traditions, academic excellence and personal growth flourish. That approach is resonating more than ever, with the school having an enrollment of 1,130 students this year. Principal Stacia Andricain shared more about what makes St. Joseph’s special.
How would you describe the campus environment?
The girls empower each other and raise each other up. That is what I love the most. It’s an environment where girls strive and build confidence. That is what parents tell me so often. I love the sisterhood that we have here.
St. Joseph’s is known for its academic rigor. What does that mean in day-to-day practice?
Academic rigor does not just mean honors and Advanced Placement classes, although we do have those. We are a college preparatory school. We teach students how to study and manage their time, and how to be a powerful communicator. That rigor encompasses all of the skills that we want them to know, on top of a curriculum that is going to prepare them for college.
Aside from traditional classes, how else does St. Joseph’s educate students?
We’ve worked hard to bring the girls new experiences through clubs, classes and hands-on activities. We have more than 40 clubs on campus. Many of those opportunities are driven by the students. They tell us their interests, and we start a club or a class that is focused on it, or we get a guest speaker on that topic, or we add it to our annual career day. Some of the more popular areas where we have added opportunities are in entrepreneurship, STEM, coding and music.
How is the Catholic faith embedded into daily life at St. Joseph’s?
Our number one priority is student faith development. We make sure that is in every aspect of the day. We have community prayer several times a day. All of our sports teams have chaplains. We have a school chaplain. We also have a mission integration director to make sure the school’s mission and the charism of the Sisters of St. Joseph are integrated into everything that we do.
Visit www.sjabr.org to learn more about St. Joseph’s Academy.
SJA is a five-time National Blue Ribbon School. For the third year in a row, SJA was named a STEM School of Excellence by the International Technology and Engineering Educators Association. In 2024-2025, five athletic teams brought home state or national championships.
• 100% College acceptance percentage.
• $873,863 Scholarship dollars earned in 2024.
1,128
12:1
1868 APPLICATION DEADLINE YEAR FOUNDED STUDENT/ TEACHER RATIO ENROLLMENT 9-12 GRADES
Nov. 21
LSt. James Episcopal Small classes, big opportunities: thrives in the heart of Baton Rouge
By Amanda McElfresh | amcelfresh@theadvocate.com
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
St. James Episcopal Day School.
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.
St. Luke’s Episcopal School
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.
Since 1957, St. Luke’s Episcopal School has provided a highquality, faith-based education in a warm and nurturing environment. Today, under the leadership of Head of School Mitch Bilbe, the school continues its mission to prepare students not only for academic success but also for meaningful lives grounded in service, leadership and community.
Bilbe said that the people of St. Luke’s – parents, teachers, administrators, staff and students – make it a truly nurturing and kind environment.
“Everyone is on the same page as far as who we are and who we want to be,” he said. “It’s a holistic approach where we’re not just teaching in the classroom. Pretty much everything we do here is some sort of life lesson. We have very supportive parents who buy into that.”
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 help in math or reading, 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.”
While St. Luke’s has long been known for academic excellence, as many of its eighth graders are sought after by
Baton Rouge’s top private and magnet schools, it has enhanced its programming recently with new technology that expands hands-on learning. This year, an Innovation Lab was added to the lower school, featuring robotics and other interactive activities. The middle school computer lab was upgraded to give students the chance to work on robotics, 3D sculpting and other projects.
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 the rhythm of 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, mentoring younger children and making decisions that affect their peers. Students are also encourage to serve others through outreach efforts such as toy drives, flood relief, food collections and support for military families.
“It’s a balance between building that culture and having challenging academic programming,” Bilbe said. “I think it’s the best of both worlds.” Visit www.stlukesbrschool.org to learn more.
Strategic plan targets growth, Blue Ribbon status and engagement at
St. Michael the Archangel
By Amanda McElfresh | amcelfresh@theadvocate.com
As St. Michael the Archangel High School enters its 42nd year, its leaders are charting a bold path for the future with a three-year strategic plan that places faith and excellence at the center of every endeavor.
President Ryan Empson and Principal Jared Cavalier said the plan, which began this year and runs through 2028, is designed to build on the renewed energy on campus while uniting the school community around shared goals.
“Our high-level strategic vision is that our school would be a place where our Catholic faith is the golden thread woven through every aspect of our teaching and community life, uniting all knowledge into a harmonious whole,” they said. “Faith is not merely one subject among many; it is the cornerstone that integrates all learning, illuminating the beauty, purpose and order of God’s creation.”
This new chapter seeks to build on the significant progress that was made at St. Michael in the 2024-25 school year, during which 97 percent of its Advanced Placement test takers scored 3 or higher on the test’s 5-point scale and the campus saw major facility upgrades, including a new Warrior Stadium and dedicated Campus Ministry space, a redesigned student courtyard and improved security.
The school also adopted a president/principal leadership model and launched a creative initiative to reconnect with more than 5,000 alumni nationwide, including alumni road trips to Lafayette and New Orleans, with Bay St. Louis and Hammond next on the itinerary.
Principal Jared Cavalier said parent surveys, student feedback and community involvement have helped to shape the strategic plan and will continue to inform the steps moving forward.
“To make this plan truly robust and impactful, we invite you to share your voice,” he said.
To learn more, visit www.smhsbr.org to learn more about St. Michael the Archangel High School.
• Grow enrollment from the current 705 students to 800 • Increase alumni engagement for spiritual growth and donor involvement • Achieve National Blue Ribbon School status to recognize academic achievement and encourage scholarship donations
• See the athletics program become monetarily selfsufficient
• Increase annual fundraising
• Create a more welcoming campus environment
• Southwest Region ACS Award (2024-Science-Lorenzo Foster)
• NCEA Lead.Learn.Proclaim. Award (2023-Social Studies-Josh Zeringue, 2018-Science-Anna Bourgeois)
• NCEA Education Excellence Award (2015-Band Director Kevin Andry)
• 97% College acceptance percentage.
•$9,759,660 Scholarship dollars earned in 2024.
This article is brought to you by St. Michael the Archangel.
St. Thomas More 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.
At 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 the world around them.
“We talk a lot about kindness and manners. It always makes me proud to see those conversations in action,” McDaniel said. “You see 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. Visitors say they like the environment here, and I think that says so much about our students and our staff.”
The STM campus leaves an impression, nestled under shady oak trees with well-kept facilities and outdoor gathering spots for students. But, McDaniel said the true difference comes from the people.
“The faculty and staff are not only amazing at their jobs, but they are amazing men and women who go the extra mile for each other and for our students,” she said. “Our children are here to learn. 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.”
Beyond the warmth and inviting nature at STM, the school sets itself apart with a strong academic program designed to meet students where they are. 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.”
McDaniel said one of the school’s top priorities this year is advancing curriculum development. Teachers are working on curriculum mapping and instructional units to ensure consistency, fill gaps and avoid unnecessary overlap.
Above all else is the school’s ongoing commitment to forming students in their Catholic faith and values.
“We are laying the foundation to building productive citizens in our world,” McDaniel said.
Visit www.stmbr.org/school to earn more about St. Thomas More.
Preschool 13 K-2 18 3-8 25
West Feliciana Parish sets the standard for student achievement Louisiana’s best:
By Amanda McElfresh | amcelfresh@theadvocate.com
This article is brought to you by West Feliciana Parish Schools.
West Feliciana Parish Schools continues to set the bar for excellence in Louisiana. As the number 1 district in Louisiana, West Feliciana Parish Schools serves approximately 2,200 students in a close-knit community just north of Baton Rouge. The district has been recognized as top in the state for literacy scores, math scores, and ACT average with figures that place West Feliciana well above state averages.
Superintendent Hollis Milton attributed that success to consistency, dedication and a holistic approach to education.
“Our teachers are extremely kind, caring and committed. They are good mentors who come in every day with enthusiasm and effort. They are extremely knowledgeable about the content they are teaching,” Milton said. “When you put all of that together, you know that students are going to grow and enjoy learning.”
The educational journey in West Feliciana Parish begins early. The district offers a universal Pre-Kindergarten program for 4 year olds, ensuring that every child in the parish has access to pre-kindergarten tuition-free. Milton said the program also features art, music, creativity, STEM and physical education.
“That sets the foundation for the years to come. We know that if we can get students reading on or above grade level by third grade, the world is their oyster. That is always a priority,” Milton said. “At our higher grade levels, we continue the arts, languages, and STEM courses, and also challenge our students with high school courses in our middle school and dual enrollment and Advanced Placement courses in our high school. We currently offer 26 college level courses at our high school, and we will continue to add more. We’re always recalibrating and looking at what we can do to be better than the year before.”
Milton said the district’s unique physical layout creates an environment of collaboration and excellence. All schools sit on a 100-acre campus, creating synergy and a sense of unity. A state-of-the-art career and technical education center on campus was recently recognized by the Baton Rouge Industrial
Alliance for its excellence. Also on campus, the district recently opened a new athletic fieldhouse that will serve as a home base for student-athletes to work on strength and conditioning, as well as receive nutritional education.
“In addition to academics, we believe in the power of athletics and strive to offer something for everyone. From football and basketball to powerlifting, wrestling, golf, swim, tennis, flag team and more, our athletic program is robust and offers every student an opportunity to be involved. All of these programs will now go through the fieldhouse with access to the premier, fully-equipped workout facility.” Milton said. “We want to teach our students in a holistic way what it means to have good health.”
Whether it’s building or upgrading facilities, supporting teachers to be their best or opening new educational doors for students, Milton said one thing is certain – West Feliciana Parish will not rest on its laurels.
“Everything we do is about striving for excellence and serving the whole child,” he said. “When you are able to do that not just on an academic level, but on a social and emotional level, you see a lot of joy. Students and teachers are working hard, but with a smile. Everyone here is motivated to do their best.”
Visit www.wfpsb.org to learn more about West Feliciana Parish Schools.
Football photo by Stacey Foretich
2023-2024 District Performance Scores: West Feliciana Parish Schools #1 with a 98.3
#1 District in the state Bains Elementary and Bains Lower Elementary recognized as a Louisiana Model of Excellence System for the High Dosage Tutoring Initiative
1st in the state for Kinder3rd graders reading on or above grade level
From gardens to STEM labs,
WHAM offers unique learning spaces for young minds
Westdale Heights Academic Magnet (WHAM) is a dedicated academic magnet with a focus on environmental science, mathematics and technology. Since 2004, WHAM has combined rigorous academics with hands-on educational opportunities for students in kindergarten through fifth grade.
WHAM Principal Nathan Hite believes hands-on experiences are beneficial to all students.
“You have students who are visual learners, students who are auditory learners and students who are a combination,” he said. “For all of them, we’ve seen that it really solidifies the learning when they get to do something. Whether they’re in the gardens or science lab, they learn what it means to be caregivers and good stewards of our earth.”
“Something that is so special about WHAM is the different learning spaces for students,” said Genevieve Moss, WHAM’S Magnet Site Coordinator. “We have traditional classrooms and we also have beautiful school gardens, a STEM lab, a science lab and even live animals – including a bearded dragon that our student lab helpers love to take on walks. There are so many places on campus where students can learn.”
WHAM currently serves about 420 students in grades K-5 and prides itself on a diverse student body.
“We love that we have a very diverse student population,” Moss said. “We’ve seen over time that our students in all subgroups excel academically as a result of hands-on learning. Additionally, we have experienced teachers who know how to reach all types of learners.”
WHAM also values a close-knit environment, commonly called the “WHAM-ily.” Teachers and administrators get to know families personally and maintain high levels of communication. Parents are deeply involved and invested, and
many have sent multiple children to the school over the years.
One strong sign of those connections came this past spring, when WHAM hosted an event for graduating high school seniors to return to the school and pay tribute to their former teachers. Hite noted that the idea for the event came from a WHAM parent.
“It was a wonderful event filled with happy tears and pictures,” Hite said. “It says something great that so many of their teachers are still here several years later. It shows how much of a family we are. We really have that traditional vibe in a modern era. We do a good job of balancing the two.”
As a magnet school, WHAM’s application process is open to children from across the East Baton Rouge Parish Schools attendance zone. Parents can apply online at www.ebrmagnet. org during the Priority Magnet Application Period, which runs from October 6 through December 5, 2025. From there, students are assigned to WHAM through a lottery selection process. Students entering grades K-3, who are selected in the lottery, take part in an academic screening which determines final eligibility for enrollment. Students entering grades 4-5 must have a 2.5 cumulative GPA for the last four consecutive semesters, and perform on a level of Basic or above on LEAP 2025 or the equivalent on a norm-referenced assessment in both ELA and math.
WHAM will host open house tours for prospective K-5 families on Tuesday, Sept. 30 and Thursday Oct. 2 from 9 am to 10:30 am each day. A special kinder“garden” informational session for incoming kindergarten families will be held on Thursday Oct. 2 from 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm. Families can also schedule tours by calling 225-926-5421.
For more information, please visit www.westdaleheights. weebly.com
By Amanda McElfresh | amcelfresh@theadvocate.com
This article is brought to you byWestdale Heights Academic Magnet.
