NEW ORLEANS, La. (UrbanCast: 7/27/2026) — Rapides Parish Schools celebrated two statewide award winners and one principal semifinalist during the 20th Annual Cecil J. Picard Educator Excellence Awards Gala at the National WWII Museum.
The Louisiana Department of Education, in partnership with Dream Teachers, recognized outstanding educators from across the state during the annual event.
Sarah Corley, of LSUA, was named Louisiana Early Childhood Leader of the Year. Michelle Blaney, of Buckeye High School, earned the title of Louisiana High School Teacher of the Year. Meanwhile, Christy Dugas, principal of J.I. Barron, represented Rapides Parish as a state principal semifinalist.
Superintendent Jeff Powell said the honors reflect the dedication of educators across the district.
Having Two Winners
“Having two winners, as well as a principal semifinalist, is simply a testament to the amazing work happening in Rapides Parish,” Powell said. “It’s an immense honor to work alongside such talented and deserving teachers and leaders. We’re embodying the vision and mission of our district daily, and these awards are amplifying that commitment to the community we’re honored to serve.”
Blaney credited her students for the honor and thanked her administration and district leaders for their support.
“I have the most amazing students to thank for this award,” Blaney said. “Their hard work, their success, it’s theirs. Without their love, dedication, and passion, I couldn’t be here.”
Corley said educators have the opportunity to create lasting change through intentional learning and caring for children.
Dugas said she is proud to be both a graduate of Rapides Parish Schools and an educator who continues serving the district’s students.
State officials selected this year’s honorees through a multi-step process that included application reviews, classroom observations and interviews with a statewide selection committee.
The annual Educator Excellence Gala is Louisiana’s highest recognition for excellence in teaching and school leadership.
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