ALEXANDRIA, La. (4/9/2026) – Sarah Corley, Director of the LSUA Children’s Center, has been named a finalist for Louisiana Early Childhood Leader of the Year by the Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE).
The recognition places Corley among a select group of leaders across the state honored for their excellence in early childhood education and their impact on young learners and families. The LDOE, in collaboration with Dream Teachers, recognizes outstanding principals, teachers, and early childhood leaders each year, highlighting those who demonstrate exceptional leadership, innovation, and commitment to student success.
“Congratulations to each of these exceptional educators,” said Louisiana State Superintendent of Education Dr. Cade Brumley. “They are helping students succeed academically and demonstrating why Louisiana is becoming a national example of what works in the classroom.”
As Director of the LSUA Children’s Center, Corley has played a vital role in fostering a high-quality early learning environment that supports both children and families in central Louisiana. Under her leadership, the center has served as a model for integrating educational excellence with strong operational leadership, ensuring that young learners receive the foundation they need for long-term success.
Student Engagement & Enrollment
Abbey Bain, LSUA Vice Chancellor for Student Engagement & Enrollment, praised Corley’s impact on the university and the broader community. “Sarah is the rare professional who successfully balances the business, leadership, and educational demands of early childhood programming with authenticity and heart,” Bain said. “LSUA is fortunate to have her, and I am personally grateful for the lasting impact she has had on my family and on our university community. She is an inspiration, a leader, and a true advocate for early childhood education.”
The Louisiana Early Childhood Leader of the Year award recognizes directors and leaders from Type III Centers, CCAP Certified Family Child Care Sites, Head Start Centers, and Early Head Start Centers who have demonstrated excellence in advancing early childhood education across the state.
Finalists for all educator awards will be recognized, and overall honorees will be announced in July at the 20th Annual Cecil J. Picard Educator Excellence Gala.
Written by Adam Lord
Photo credit – Mira Alvarado
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