In a heartfelt celebration of dedication and excellence, the Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE) recently honored exceptional education professionals who serve as pillars of support for students, teachers, and families, as per this news release. These professionals, often working behind the scenes, help shape a strong foundation for student success. The recognitions were part of the annual LDOE awards program, which highlights outstanding school support employees, health service providers, and schools that prioritize physical wellness.

Donella Wagner, a custodian at Raintree Elementary in St. Mary Parish Schools, was named the 2025 Louisiana Outstanding School Support Employee of the Year. Her recognition speaks volumes about the important, yet often overlooked, work performed by custodial staff. Wagner’s role extends far beyond maintaining cleanliness—she provides daily care for the school environment, supports students and faculty alike, and brings a sense of pride and responsibility to the school community.

Wagner was chosen from a competitive field of finalists representing school systems across Louisiana. The award itself recognizes a broad spectrum of support staff, including bus drivers, paraprofessionals, food service workers, clerical staff, and aides. All nominees have demonstrated a commitment to going above and beyond their job descriptions in service of Louisiana’s schools.

Another honoree, Sue Lyn Simpson, was named the 2025 Louisiana School Health Service Provider of the Year. Simpson, a physical therapist with Ascension Public Schools, was recognized for her outstanding contributions to student health, mobility, and overall well-being. Her work plays a critical role in ensuring that students are physically equipped to access and participate fully in their educational experiences.

Finalists in this category came from a wide range of healthcare professions that intersect with school settings, including occupational and physical therapists, nurses, behavioral health providers, and speech-language pathologists. Simpson’s recognition underscores the growing understanding that academic achievement is deeply connected to physical and emotional health.

In addition to individual accolades, the LDOE also presented the Louisiana School Physical Activity Award, which celebrates schools with exemplary physical activity programs. Six schools were recognized as finalists for successfully embedding movement and wellness into the school culture. These schools represent both elementary and secondary levels, and each has demonstrated an ongoing commitment to fostering healthy lifestyles for their students and communities.

To qualify for this award, schools must go beyond standard physical education classes. They are expected to incorporate physical activity throughout the school day—before, during, and after school—while also engaging families, staff, and the broader community in wellness activities. This holistic approach encourages lifelong habits of movement and health among students and educators alike.

All of the honorees were formally recognized during a Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education(BESE) meeting held on June 3. Later that day, they were celebrated at a reception at the Old State Capitol—a setting that symbolized the gravity and dignity of their service.

This annual recognition program serves as a reminder that education is a collective effort. From custodians and therapists to school leaders and physical educators, each professional honored plays a distinct and essential role in supporting the whole child. Their work enhances not only academic achievement but also emotional resilience, physical health, and school climate.

By elevating the contributions of these professionals, the LDOE continues to emphasize that student success is not possible without the tireless efforts of those who provide support in classrooms, hallways, clinics, cafeterias, buses, playgrounds, and beyond. These award recipients represent the heart of Louisiana’s educational system—where commitment, compassion, and care drive meaningful, lasting, and everyday impact across all school communities and learning environments.

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