Author: Emily Gautreaux

Louisiana Schools Among 2024 National Blue Ribbon Honorees

The U.S. Department of Education has recently recognized seven schools across Louisiana as 2024 National Blue Ribbon Schools, according to this news release from the Louisiana Department Of Education. This prestigious award is granted to schools that demonstrate academic excellence or make significant progress in closing achievement gaps among various student groups. The schools recognized in Louisiana this year are from six parishes: Calcasieu, East Baton Rouge, Iberia, Ouachita, Rapides, and St. Tammany.

Louisiana State Superintendent of Education Dr. Cade Brumley expressed his admiration for the schools’ achievements, noting that being named a National Blue Ribbon School is a remarkable accomplishment that signifies a steadfast commitment to academic success. He emphasized the role that students, educators, and families play in setting and maintaining these high standards of excellence.

The seven schools honored with the 2024 National Blue Ribbon title are spread across the state and represent a diverse mix of public and non-public institutions. These schools are:

Being awarded the National Blue Ribbon is more than just a badge of honor—it’s a symbol of outstanding teaching and learning practices. The flag, which is often displayed in the school’s entryway or on its flagpole, is recognized across the country as an emblem of exceptional education. This recognition not only honors the achievements of the specific schools but also allows them to serve as role models for others nationwide.

The National Blue Ribbon Schools Program, established in 1982, is one of the longest-running recognition programs of the U.S. Department of Education. Over the decades, it has celebrated outstanding schools across the nation, both public and non-public, at the elementary, middle, and high school levels. The primary goal of the program is to identify schools that stand out due to their academic performance or their success in closing the achievement gap among students from different backgrounds.

The program has not only highlighted the best schools in the country but has also served as a platform for sharing best practices. These Lbest practices help educators and administrators nationwide learn from each other, creating a ripple effect that extends the benefits of the Blue Ribbon recognition far beyond the honored schools.

Each year, the U.S. Department of Education collaborates with state education departments to identify outstanding schools that are worthy of the Blue Ribbon title. Nominations are based on student academic achievement metrics and progress toward closing achievement gaps. After being nominated, schools go through a rigorous review process conducted by the U.S. Department of Education, where several hundred schools nationwide are ultimately awarded this esteemed recognition.

The recognition of these seven Louisiana schools as 2024 National Blue Ribbon Schools is a testament to the quality of education in the state and the commitment of educators, students, and families to achieving excellence. These schools, located across different parishes, have set the bar high, serving as examples of what is possible when communities come together to prioritize education.

By celebrating their successes, the U.S. Department of Education highlights not only the importance of academic performance but also the value of closing achievement gaps and ensuring that all students have access to high-quality education. These schools are models for others to follow, showcasing the impact that dedication and collaboration can have on student outcomes.

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Small-Town Charm and Outdoor Adventure in Mountain Getaways

When the crisp air of autumn calls for an escape, there’s no better place to recharge than in the hidden mountain towns scattered across the United States. These lesser-known destinations from Southern Living offer the perfect blend of serenity and natural beauty, providing visitors with the chance to experience the great outdoors without the hustle and bustle often found in more popular travel spots. Whether you’re looking for cascading waterfalls, breathtaking trails, or picturesque small towns, the lesser-known mountain towns listed below are ideal for a fall getaway.

Thomas, West Virginia

Tucked away in the Allegheny Mountains, Thomas, West Virginia, is a hidden gem that blends natural beauty with a charming small-town atmosphere. The town’s red-brick district along the North Fork Blackwater River is brimming with quaint cafes, local shops, and art galleries that beckon visitors to explore. A must-see is TipTop for coffee, Picnic for a delightful lunch, and the Purple Fiddle for live music. Just a short distance away lies Blackwater Falls State Park, where visitors can immerse themselves in nature. Enjoy mountain biking, hiking, and the stunning waterfalls for an unforgettable outdoor experience.

Mountain Home, Arkansas

Nestled near the Missouri border, Mountain Home, Arkansas, is the ideal fall retreat for nature lovers. This town is surrounded by two expansive lakes, Norfork and Bull Shoals, each offering pristine shorelines and ample opportunities for fishing, boating, and hiking. With over 550 miles of shoreline at Norfork Lake and 94,000 acres at Bull Shoals Lake, there’s no shortage of space for outdoor adventures. The nearby White and North Fork Rivers also provide excellent locations for fly-fishing and riverside hikes, perfect for those seeking a peaceful day surrounded by fresh mountain air.

Morganton, North Carolina

For those seeking a blend of outdoor exploration and small-town charm, Morganton, North Carolina, should be at the top of the list. Located east of Asheville, this town boasts a welcoming town square, historic museums, and ten public parks perfect for hiking and biking. For more breathtaking views, head to nearby Lake James State Park, where you can hike, swim, or canoe amid beautiful fall foliage. Don’t forget to venture to Linville Gorge and Table Rock for some of the most scenic vistas in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Galax, Virginia

Music lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike will find something to enjoy in Galax, Virginia. This town is steeped in country music history, with live bluegrass performances happening regularly. But it’s not just the music that draws people here—Galax also offers plenty of outdoor activities, including hiking and biking along the New River Trail.Visitors can explore scenic waterfalls, such as Chestnut Creek Falls and Foster Falls, and nearby Grayson Highlands State Park, which boasts panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Frostburg, Maryland

Situated in the Allegheny Mountains, Frostburg, Maryland, is the perfect destination for those craving both outdoor activities and small-town charm. Surrounded by state parks and campgrounds, Frostburg offers endless opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and camping. Don’t miss the chance to explore the town’s vibrant downtown, where you can visit local shops or hop on the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad Trail for a leisurely ride through the rolling hills of the region.

Exploring these lesser-known mountain towns this fall will provide you with a refreshing break from the usual travel destinations. Each of these towns offers its unique charm, stunning scenery, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re hiking through the Blue Ridge Mountains or fishing by a quiet lake, these mountain retreats invite you to unwind, explore, and enjoy nature at its finest.

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A Fall Favorite: Apple Crisp with Cane Syrup

As the cool breeze of autumn settles in, there’s nothing quite like the smell of a warm apple crisp wafting through the kitchen to bring comfort and coziness to your home. Apple crisp, with its mix of tart apples, crunchy pecans, and a perfectly spiced crumb topping, is a classic dessert that embodies all the flavors of fall. This recipe takes it a step further by adding cane syrup—a rich and flavorful Louisiana staple—making this dish from Louisiana Cookin even more decadent. Whether you’re preparing a dessert for a family gathering or simply indulging in a treat on a chilly evening, this apple crisp will leave everyone craving for more.

Ingredients:

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F, ensuring it’s hot and ready to go when you finish preparing the apple crisp.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, toss together the chopped apples (both Honeycrisp and Granny Smith) with flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, vanilla bean paste, lemon juice, cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg. Stir everything together until the apples are well coated, then let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes. This will allow the apples to release some of their juices, which will help create a flavorful filling.
  3. Melt butter in a 10-inch cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the apple mixture and cook it for about 5 to 10 minutes, stirring frequently. The apples should begin to soften, and the juices will start to thicken into a syrup-like consistency. After that, stir in the reserved two cups of apples, which will add some extra texture to the filling.
  4. While the apple mixture is cooking, prepare the topping. In a small bowl, mix together the flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, pecans, oats, vanilla bean paste, salt, and cinnamon. Use your fingertips to work in the cold, cubed butter until the mixture forms small clumps. Squeeze the mixture into small and large chunks and refrigerate until you’re ready to use it.
  5. Pour the apple mixture into the skillet and sprinkle the Pecan Crisp Topping evenly over the top. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling. Allow the crisp to rest for 15 minutes before serving.
  6. Before serving, drizzle the warm apple crisp with a generous amount of cane syrup. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgence.

While apple crisp is undoubtedly the star of the show, you can serve it with a variety of side dishes to create a well-rounded meal. Consider pairing it with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette to balance out the sweetness of the dessert. If you’re serving it as part of a brunch spread, cinnamon rolls or buttermilk biscuits would be a great accompaniment. For a heartier meal, you could offer roasted chicken or pork as the main dish, with the apple crisp acting as a sweet finish.

This apple crisp with cane syrup is a delicious way to celebrate the flavors of fall. The combination of tart apples, warm spices, and a crunchy topping makes it the perfect comfort food for cooler weather. The addition of cane syrup elevates this classic dessert, giving it a Southern twist that will leave your taste buds wanting more. Whether served alone or paired with a scoop of ice cream, this apple crisp is sure to become a staple in your autumn recipe rotation.

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Fall in Love with Autumn Travel: Top U.S. Destinations

Fall is an ideal time to travel across the United States, offering unique experiences, vibrant landscapes, and cooler weather. The shoulder season, which spans September to November, offers travelers lower costs, fewer tourists, and beautiful fall foliage. Popular destinations like beaches and mountain towns are quieter, allowing for more peaceful exploration and better deals on accommodations. If you’re ready to see the country in all its autumnal glory, consider checking out these standout destinations from Travel + Leisure, which blend natural beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural highlights.

San Diego, California: Coastal Bliss with Fewer Crowds

San Diego is a destination synonymous with year-round sunshine and a laid-back vibe, making it a perfect escape in any season. While summer brings beach crowds, fall offers a quieter atmosphere, with fewer tourists packing the city’s famous coastline. Temperatures in the 70s ensure pleasant days for strolling through downtown, where the restaurants, art galleries, and shops buzz with activity. Balboa Park, with its museums and gardens, and the world-renowned San Diego Zoo are great spots to explore when the city is less crowded. Plus, fall travel brings more affordable rates at upscale hotels like the Pendry San Diego.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming: Mountain Air and National Parks

Jackson Hole is best known as a winter haven for skiers and snowboarders, but fall brings a different kind of magic to this mountain town. Clear skies, crisp air, and vibrant foliage make it one of the best times to visit. Grand Teton andYellowstone National Parks are especially stunning, with fewer tourists and incredible views of wildlife, including elk herds in the National Elk Refuge. Whether hiking, taking scenic drives, or exploring the Western shops in town, you’ll find the serenity of Jackson in the fall hard to resist.

Montauk, New York: Peaceful Beaches and Stunning Seascapes

Montauk, located at the tip of Long Island, is a summertime favorite, but the tranquility of fall transforms it into a hidden gem. In September and October, the beaches like Ditch Plains offer peaceful retreats, perfect for long walks along the sand, where the summer crowds have dispersed. The cooler weather brings a different kind of appeal, with visitors enjoying hot coffee by the ocean or sitting around fire pits at charming inns like Marram Montauk. Yoga sessions, fresh pastries, and s’mores make for an unforgettable, low-key retreat.

Kennebunkport, Maine: Coastal Charm and Autumn Colors

Kennebunkport offers an idyllic coastal getaway with a touch of New England elegance, particularly in the fall. While it’s popular in the summer, autumn is a quieter season, with opportunities to enjoy lobster feasts, coastal walks, and sailing excursions without the hustle of peak season. The fall foliage, especially in September and October, provides a stunning backdrop for exploring the town’s beaches and countryside. Visitors who want a cozy escape can stay just outside town at White Barn Inn, Auberge Resorts Collection, where they can enjoy the beauty of the season in a peaceful setting.

Aspen, Colorado: Golden Leaves and Outdoor Adventures

Though Aspen is famous for its winter sports, fall reveals a quieter, yet equally beautiful side of this Colorado town. The golden leaves of the aspen trees create a stunning contrast against the clear blue skies, and the mild weather is perfect for hiking, horseback riding, and hot air ballooning. Fly fishing is also popular during the autumn months, offering a serene escape into nature. Travelers can also take advantage of lower rates at luxurious resorts like Hotel Jerome, making an Aspen getaway more affordable in shoulder season.

Park City, Utah: Foliage and Outdoor Fun

Known for its winter slopes and the Sundance Film Festival, Park City is a hidden gem during the fall season. The fiery foliage, crisp air, and fewer tourists make it an excellent time for hiking, biking, or simply driving through the breathtaking scenery. Main Street offers boutique shopping and farm-to-table dining, with shoulder season rates making luxury hotels like Montage Deer Valley more accessible. For those looking to explore, the town’s fall beauty offers an unforgettable experience.

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Acadian Ambulance Receives Industry’s Gold Standard Re-accreditation

Acadian Ambulance’s Louisiana and Mississippi operations recently achieved re-accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Ambulance Services (CAAS), earning a perfect score during the review. As per this article from The Advocate, This significant achievement highlights the company’s commitment to providing top-quality medical transportation services, exceeding many of the industry’s standards, and affirming its role as a leader in emergency medical care.

The Commission on Accreditation of Ambulance Services (CAAS) was established to enhance, promote, and recognize excellence in patient care within America’s medical transportation system. Achieving CAAS accreditation signifies that an ambulance service has met the highest industry standards. It is not merely about meeting basic regulations; it often involves exceeding both state and local requirements. This level of accreditation serves as a mark of distinction within the field of emergency medical services (EMS) and reflects a company’s dedication to quality care.

The accreditation process is thorough and comparable to the rigorous evaluations used for hospitals and nursing homes. It occurs every three years and involves an intensive application phase followed by an on-site inspection lasting several days. During this inspection, a team of external experts evaluates the company’s operations. For Acadian Ambulance’s most recent reaccreditation, reviewers from across the country traveled to Louisiana and Mississippi to assess the company’s performance. This included visits to the company’s newest service area in Harrison County, Mississippi, as part of the evaluation.

Acadian Ambulance has held its CAAS accreditation since 1995, which emphasizes its long-standing commitment to high standards. It remains one of only two ambulance services in both Louisiana and Mississippi to have achieved this accreditation. The release noted that Acadian is also one of 12 accredited ambulance services in Texas and one of approximately 170 nationwide to earn this distinction. Acadian Ambulance’s Texas operations had previously been reaccredited by CAAS in 2022, further showcasing the company’s dedication to maintaining superior service across its service areas.

Justin Back, President of Acadian Ambulance, expressed that while the CAAS accreditation is not required for daily operations, the company sought it out because of its significance as the “gold standard” in EMS. According to Back, CAAS accreditation ensures accountability not only to patients but also to healthcare partners, which is a crucial aspect of their service model. He explained that the CAAS reviewers highlighted Acadian’s equipment, training, technology, and fleet as industry-leading and of exceptional quality, reflecting the company’s forward-thinking approach to EMS.

In addition to its outstanding service, Acadian Ambulance continues to innovate and adapt to the changing needs of the communities it serves. This includes the use of cutting-edge technology and continuous staff training to stay ahead in the field. The company has introduced modernized ambulances equipped with the latest medical devices, enhancing both patient care and overall response time. Furthermore, Acadian has invested heavily in training its personnel, ensuring that all staff members are equipped with the skills and knowledge required to provide optimal emergency medical care.

Acadian Ambulance has grown into one of the largest ambulance services in the country, providing medical transportation and services across multiple states, including Louisiana, Texas, Mississippi, and Tennessee. This growth is rooted in the company’s mission to offer superior care, a goal that has been central to its operations since its founding in 1971.

Since its establishment, Acadian Companies has expanded beyond emergency medical transportation to include a wide range of services. This includes health, safety, and security offerings, as well as education and transportation services. Through these varied services, the company remains committed to providing the best possible support and education to the communities it serves, continuously working to enhance its offerings and improve its impact on public health and safety.

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STEM in Louisiana: How Aquaponics Is Transforming Middle School Education

The Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE) recently announced an exciting development for the state’s middle school STEM programs. A grant of $405,000 from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine’s (NASEM) Gulf Research Program (GRP) has been awarded to establish a pioneering STEM-based aquaponics curriculum at a Louisiana middle school. This initiative, named “Greauxing STEM-Stewards,” is designed to boost scientific and environmental literacy for students in grades 6-8 through practical, hands-on learning, as per this news release from LDOE. The focus of the program is on environmental sustainability and controlled environment agriculture, known as CEA, which introduces students to the integration of technology with agriculture.

The Greauxing STEM-Stewards program represents a significant step in education, being the first of its kind in Louisiana to introduce a Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) learning space. CEA systems allow for plants and animals to thrive within a regulated environment, offering a perfect blend of scientific discovery and technological innovation. The pilot program will be launched at Westside Junior High School in Livingston Parish, which will serve as the model for other schools across the state. Once the groundwork is established, the program will be expanded to additional schools statewide.

This new initiative not only teaches students about aquaponics—a sustainable method of farming that combines aquaculture (raising fish) with hydroponics (growing plants without soil)—but also connects them with real-world issues impacting their local Gulf Coast communities. By using aquaponics as the medium for teaching science, students will explore broader topics related to aquaculture, conservation, and environmental responsibility. At Westside Junior High, students will have the opportunity to learn about these environmental issues firsthand, gaining valuable insight into sustainable practices while also building skills that will be useful in future STEM careers.

The program aims to establish a unique learning ecosystem where students can grow plants, manage aquatic life, and monitor the environmental factors influencing their growth—all within a controlled, tech-driven environment. Westside Junior High will not only serve as the location for this innovative aquaponics lab, but it will also be the base for developing curriculum, lesson plans, and a virtual community of practice. Once tested and refined, the program will be expanded to other schools across Louisiana, ensuring that students statewide can benefit from this enriching experience.

Ronnie Morris, the president of the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE), expressed excitement about the program’s potential, noting that students frequently ask how education can be made more applicable to real-life situations. Morris explained that aquaponics allows STEM disciplines to be applied in ways that students can immediately see and understand. By turning classrooms into self-contained ecosystems, students become more engaged and motivated to learn, as they see the direct impact of their studies on the living organisms they manage. The hands-on nature of the program, combined with the innovative curriculum and virtual community for educators, positions the Greauxing STEM-Stewards program as a game changer in Louisiana’s STEM education landscape. The combination of science literacy, problem-solving, and environmental awareness prepares students not just for academic success but also for future careers in STEM fields, especially those related to agriculture and environmental stewardship.

This partnership with local industries ensures that the program isn’t just theoretical; it aims to create a direct connection between classroom learning and future career opportunities. Students will gain insights into industries that are critical to Louisiana’s economy while also becoming more aware of the environmental challenges facing their communities. One of the program’s goals is to help students see the relevance of their education by linking it to their surroundings and future careers.

This initiative not only highlights the importance of innovative educational methods but also showcases how hands-on learning can bridge the gap between classroom lessons and real-world applications. By integrating place-based learning with cutting-edge agricultural technology, Louisiana is preparing the next generation of environmental stewards and STEM professionals.

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