BOSSIER CITY, La. — For kids, fall signals the start of school and the excitement of moving up to the next grade. For many, it’s also the thrill of finding out which teacher will guide them through the year — especially in the early grades, when the foundation for a lifelong learning journey is set.
At Apollo Elementary School in Bossier City, Jessica Cochran is making that moment count. In her third-grade classroom, she sets the rules and expectations, but she also makes space for fun, connection, and creativity. On the first day, students jumped out of their seats for a lively mashup of musical chairs and bingo — a playful way to get to know their classmates.
Although Cochran has spent nine years assisting in classrooms, this is her first year as an official teacher. She’s eager to connect with each child and help them grow academically.
“It is third grade. You know, we have those high-stakes, what they call devil’s tests,” Cochran said. “It’s great that they’ve implemented this so we can make sure our students are reading before we just send them on to the next grade. I’m very excited Louisiana has put that into effect so that we’re not just sending kids that cannot read.”…