Love Our Schools recently recognized 15 outstanding educators and support staff from across Lafayette Parish as 2026 Education All-Star Finalists, honoring their exceptional impact on students, campuses and the public school system.
On Jan. 8 and 9, Love Our Schools teams traveled to school campuses throughout the parish to surprise each finalist with a personalized celebration. The visits highlighted each honoree’s dedication, leadership and commitment to public education in Lafayette Parish.
The finalists were selected for one of three distinguished honors — Hall of Fame, Breakout All-Star or All Heart — and represent elementary, middle and high schools across the district.
2026 Education All-Star Finalists include:
Hall of Fame – Elementary
- Amy Word — Westside Elementary
- Annette Bodin — Milton Elementary
- Latoya Rideau — Corporal Michael Middlebrook Elementary
Hall of Fame – Middle School
- Britney Bonnet-Taylor — Acadian Middle School
- Steven Poulan — Carencro Middle School
- Mireille Mouton — Carencro Middle School
Hall of Fame – High School
- Emily Benoit — Ovey Comeaux High School
- Mason Denux — Ovey Comeaux High School
- Sara Mulligan — Southside High School
Breakout All-Star (teachers with one to three years of classroom experience)
- Mark Mouton — Carencro Middle School
- Harley Dupre — Southside High School
- Emily Weber — Edgar Martin Middle School
All Heart (recognizing outstanding support staff)
- Katy Twiner — Carencro Bob Lily Elementary
- Wilton Allen — Southside High School
- Ali Cantrell — Milton Elementary / Middle
The Education All-Stars celebration will culminate at 3 p.m. Feb. 7 during the Ragin’ Cajuns men’s basketball game. Winners in each category will be announced at halftime in front of the community they serve, and the public is invited to attend and celebrate…