Grant Parish Public Schools was well represented at the Louisiana Department of Education’s Teacher Leader Summit in New Orleans, where district leaders and educators shared their expertise with thousands of educators from across the state.
Several members of the Grant Parish team were selected to serve as presenters during the annual conference, a distinction that highlights their leadership and contributions to education in Louisiana.
Among those selected to present were Verda Elementary School Principal Michael Dubois and Pollock Elementary School Principal Erica Firment. The pair participated in a panel discussion titled “From Rubric to Results: Practical Strategies for Implementing the LA Educator Evaluation,” where they shared insights and best practices for supporting teacher growth and effectiveness.
Grant Parish Superintendent Dr. Erin Stokes was also chosen to present at the summit, leading sessions on “Letting Teachers Teach – Policy and Practice for Effective Implementation” and “Leading with Impact: Practical Strategies for Implementing the LA Leader Evaluation.” Her presentations focused on leadership strategies and effective educational practices that support student achievement and educator success.
Special Education Supervisor Denise Young represented the district as a presenter during the session “Transition Success: Panel with DIF Grant Participants – Middle to High School Pilot Overview,” highlighting efforts to support students as they transition between educational levels.
In addition to the district’s educational leaders, a Grant Parish student was recognized for her participation in the Louisiana Department of Education’s Aspiring Educators Cohort.
Shelby McKay, a student at Montgomery High School, was selected to represent both the cohort and Grant Parish Public Schools based on her interest in education, leadership potential, academic involvement, and commitment to learning.
During the summit, McKay presented in the session “Learning and Leading: Aspiring Educators Cohort,” where she discussed her classroom observation experiences in another school district and shared how the opportunity contributed to her understanding of the teaching profession.
According to district officials, the Teacher Leader Summit attracted nearly 7,500 educators from across Louisiana, providing opportunities for professional development, collaboration, and the exchange of innovative educational practices.
Grant Parish School Board officials expressed pride in the educators and student who represented the district, noting that their selection as presenters reflects the high level of talent, leadership, and commitment found throughout Grant Parish Public Schools.
The district’s participation at the statewide conference underscores its continued dedication to educational excellence and leadership development among both educators and students.