Iberia Parish School District

06/12/2026

📣💻 Iberia Virtual Program Applications Open June 15! 💻📣

The Iberia Parish School District will begin accepting applications for the Iberia Virtual Program for the 2026-2027 school year beginning Monday, June 15, 2026.

The program is available to students entering Grades 4-12 and provides a virtual learning option for eligible students throughout Iberia Parish.

🗓 Application Window:
June 15, 2026 – July 10, 2026

📚 Available for:
Students in Grades 4-12

⚠️ Applications will only be accepted during the application period. Families interested in participating are encouraged to review the program information and submit their application before the July 10 deadline.

📝 Apply and learn more here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeN-BjpMrBMtsp14ygcxBD_Wpn9ZGsm9cgLqH2TO-1klxfVcQ/viewform?usp=publish-editor

We look forward to supporting students and families through another successful year of virtual learning opportunities.

Please complete the form by Friday, July 10, 2026 in order to be considered for entry into the IVP program for the 2026-2027 school year. Enrollment is limited and slots will be filled on a first-come-first-served basis for those students who meet the eligibility criteria.

06/11/2026

🎓🌟 Where Are They Now? 🌟🎓

Today, we are proud to spotlight Kullen Gilliam, a 2022 graduate of Westgate High School, whose journey continues to demonstrate the power of vision, leadership, and perseverance. 💙

Since graduating from Westgate, Kullen has earned a degree in Political Science from Morehouse College, with minors in Communications and Criminal Justice. During college, Kullen served as a student leader, Residential Advisor, mentor, and advocate, helping cultivate community, mentorship, and excellence among fellow students.

Kullen's path was inspired by a belief that leadership is about more than titles. It is about responsibility. Growing up in New Iberia helped shape an understanding that greatness is not determined by where you come from, but by the vision, discipline, and purpose you carry with you. Morehouse College further strengthened that belief and reinforced the importance of servant leadership and creating opportunities for others.

One lesson that has remained constant since IPSD is the value of resilience. Long before degrees and accomplishments, there was simply a student learning how to persevere through challenges and trust the process. That mindset helped carry Kullen from Iberia Parish classrooms to one of the nation's most respected institutions.

When reflecting on IPSD, Kullen shared gratitude for the educators, coaches, and mentors who recognized potential, encouraged growth, and challenged students to think critically, lead intentionally, and pursue ambitious goals. Their investment became part of the foundation for future success.

Among the accomplishments Kullen is most proud of are graduating from Morehouse College and making a meaningful impact through mentorship, leadership, and service. Helping guide younger students while continuing personal growth remains one of the most rewarding aspects of the journey. 🌟

For current IPSD students, Kullen offers this advice:

"Never allow your present circumstances to place limitations on your future possibilities. Excellence is not accidental, it is intentional. Protect your vision, remain disciplined, and understand that your name carries weight long before you enter a room. The world will often tell young people from small towns to dream realistically. I encourage you to dream fearlessly."

Looking ahead, Kullen plans to pursue a Master's degree in Public Administration followed by a Doctorate in Political Science/Public Policy. Long-term goals include public service, policy reform, community advocacy, and creating meaningful change for underserved communities.

Kullen hopes to build a legacy rooted in service, integrity, and purpose while showing future generations that a young person from New Iberia can make an impact on the world stage without ever forgetting where they came from.

Congratulations, Kullen! Your leadership and commitment to serving others make Iberia Parish proud. 💙

06/10/2026

We were honored to welcome Kenya Jenkins, LDOE Director of Federal Support, and Laurie Stewart, Assistant State Director, to our ELL Summer Learning Program this week!

During their visit, they observed students strengthening foundational reading skills through phonics instruction, developing English language proficiency, and participating in Flying Classroom engineering challenges. Students designed prototype seawalls to protect communities from flooding and created fish traps to address the impact of invasive lionfish on coral reef ecosystems.

These engaging activities combine literacy, language acquisition, STEM, and real-world problem solving to help our multilingual learners grow and succeed.

Thank you, Kenya and Laurie, for visiting our program and supporting the incredible work of our students and staff!

06/10/2026

🎉 Congratulations to Three Outstanding Iberia Parish Educators! 🎉

Today, at the Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) meeting in Baton Rouge, three Iberia Parish School District educators were recognized for successfully completing the Louisiana Department of Education's Aspiring Principals Program.

The Aspiring Principals Program is a rigorous leadership development initiative designed to prepare highly effective educators for future school leadership roles. Participants engage in intensive professional learning, mentoring, and practical experiences that strengthen their skills in instructional leadership, school culture, student achievement, and organizational management.

We are incredibly proud of these dedicated educators for taking the next step in their leadership journey and investing in the future of education in Iberia Parish:

⭐ Lindsey Boudreaux – Master Teacher, Jefferson Island Road Elementary School

⭐ Kiana Girouard – Master Teacher, Belle Place Middle School

⭐ Mandi Keigley – Master Teacher, Caneview Elementary School

Their commitment to continuous growth and excellence exemplifies the caliber of educators serving our students each day. We look forward to seeing the positive impact they will continue to make as future educational leaders in our district.

Please join us in congratulating Kiana, Lindsey, and Mandi on this outstanding accomplishment! 👏🍎📚

06/10/2026

🎓🌟 Where Are They Now? 🌟🎓

Today, we are proud to spotlight Blair Blanchard, a member of the Westgate High School Class of 2009, who continues to make a meaningful impact throughout Acadiana through leadership, education, and community service.

After attending Daspit Elementary, Belle Place Middle School, and Westgate High School, Blair built a career centered around helping others succeed. Today, Blair serves as a Senior Business Relations Officer at Advancial Federal Credit Union, focusing on financial education, business development, and community outreach. Blair also holds several professional certifications dedicated to financial literacy and leadership and is passionate about making financial education more accessible for people of all ages.

One lesson from IPSD that has remained throughout life is the importance of understanding and respecting people whose experiences may be different from our own. Exposure to diverse backgrounds and perspectives helped develop empathy, compassion, and an appreciation for the unique challenges others may face.

When reflecting on educators who made a lasting impact, Blair shared appreciation for many teachers, including Margo LeBlanc, Aimee Theriot, Jennifer Kidd, Charles Songy, Meghan Thibodeaux, Maggie Musemeche, and Cheryl Freyou, noting that the lessons, encouragement, and examples they provided continue to influence life today.

Among the accomplishments Blair is most proud of are building a career focused on helping others, earning multiple professional certifications, being recognized as a Top 20 Under 40 honoree, creating financial education programs that benefit the community, and most importantly, building a strong life and example for two children who attend Iberia Parish schools.

For current IPSD students, Blair offers this advice:

"Don't be afraid to take chances, ask questions, and step outside of your comfort zone. Success doesn't always happen overnight, and your path may not look exactly like you imagined it would. Hard work, consistency, and treating people well will open doors you never expected."

Looking ahead, Blair hopes to continue expanding financial education opportunities, growing as a leader, advocating for public education, and supporting programs that help students thrive both inside and outside the classroom. Above all, the goal is to continue building a life centered around family, service, and making a positive impact in the community.

Thank you, Blair, for representing Iberia Parish so well and for showing our students that success can be measured not only by professional achievements, but also by the positive difference we make in the lives of others. 💙

06/09/2026

🎓🌟 Where Are They Now? 🌟🎓

Today, we are excited to spotlight Elizabeth Lynn Deslatte-Collins, a 2018 graduate of Westgate High School whose creativity and determination have helped turn a passion into a successful career. 💙

Elizabeth currently serves as a Graphic Designer and Manager at Postal Annex in Lafayette, where creativity is part of everyday life. From mugs and shirts to invitations, bookmarks, posters, and more, Elizabeth helps bring customers' ideas to life through custom design. In addition to graphic design, photography has become another creative outlet and passion. 📸🎨

The path to this career began with a simple suggestion from a teacher during sophomore year. Looking back, it made perfect sense. Design combines creativity, problem-solving, and artistic expression, all things Elizabeth has always loved.

Some favorite memories from IPSD include decorating for Homecoming in Mrs. Kidd's class, participating in theatre, helping classmates create videos for class projects, and working on the school yearbook. These experiences helped build confidence, develop creativity, and shape the person Elizabeth is today.

When asked about educators who made a lasting impact, Elizabeth shared appreciation for Mrs. Romero, Mrs. Mush, Mrs. Kidd, Mrs. Rodriguez, Coach Gardner, and Coach B, describing them as the real-life "Mr. Feeny" figures who inspired and encouraged students along the way.

One accomplishment Elizabeth is especially proud of is becoming the first person in the family to graduate from college. 🎓

For current IPSD students, Elizabeth offers this advice:

"Remember that there is a whole world out there! I know the world seems like it's on fire all the time, and that can discourage you, but keep hope with you and keep going. You only fail when you stop."

Looking ahead, Elizabeth dreams of owning a home, traveling to Paris, starting a family, and someday exploring the country in an RV with a spouse. 🗼❤️

We are proud to celebrate the success of our alumni and grateful to see former students continuing to pursue their dreams while making a positive impact in their communities.

06/06/2026

Week One of ELL Summer Learning is in the Books!

Our English Language Learners had an amazing first week of summer learning filled with opportunities to grow, explore, and connect!

Students strengthened their skills in reading, math, and English language acquisition through engaging lessons designed to build confidence and academic success. They also enjoyed hands-on learning through The Flying Classroom's Chef Circuits, where they explored STEM concepts, problem-solving, and creativity in exciting new ways.

Beyond academics, students built friendships, practiced communication skills, and experienced the joy of learning in a supportive environment. We are proud of their hard work and enthusiasm as they continue their summer learning journey.

A special thank you to our dedicated teachers and staff for creating meaningful experiences that help our multilingual learners thrive. We can't wait to see what Week Two brings!

06/06/2026

Great Leaders Never Stop Learning
As we wrapped up the school year, our district leadership team and principals came together one final time with a shared commitment to continuous learning and growth.

The meeting provided an opportunity to reflect on the year's successes, collaborate on challenges, and strengthen leadership practices that support students, staff, and school communities. Through discussions focused on EQ'ed Classroom leadership techniques and best practices, our leaders explored ways to build positive school cultures, strengthen relationships, and lead with purpose and empathy.

A special thank you to Dr. Phyllis Donatto for sharing powerful insights on EQ'ed Classroom techniques and leadership best practices. Her expertise provided valuable tools and strategies that will continue to support our leaders as they foster positive learning environments across the district.

We are proud of the dedication our principals and district leaders demonstrate in continually investing in their own growth so they can better serve our students, families, and employees. Even as the school year comes to a close, the learning continues.

06/05/2026

🌍🎓 IPSD Spotlight: Mrs. Tiffany Williams Spraggins 🎓🌍

Please join us in congratulating Mrs. Tiffany Williams Spraggins, Principal of Daspit Elementary School, on an extraordinary accomplishment! 💙

Mrs. Spraggins has been selected by Abilene Christian University to present her doctoral research at the prestigious University of Oxford in Oxford, England during the 2026 Oxford Round Table Symposium, an internationally recognized gathering of educators, scholars, and policymakers.

As a doctoral candidate in Educational Leadership, Mrs. Spraggins will present her research, "The Literacy Bridge: Exploring Science of Reading Practices in Middle School Mathematics Classrooms," which examines how literacy strategies can support student success across academic disciplines.

This remarkable honor reflects Mrs. Spraggins' commitment to educational excellence, instructional leadership, and student achievement. Her work continues to contribute to important conversations about literacy, teacher preparation, and equitable learning opportunities for all students.

Not only is this a tremendous personal achievement, but it is also a proud moment for Daspit Road Elementary, Iberia Parish School District, and the entire Louisiana education community. Mrs. Spraggins' selection places local educational leadership on a global stage and highlights the outstanding work happening within our schools every day.

Congratulations, Mrs. Spraggins! We are incredibly proud of this well-deserved recognition and look forward to seeing the impact of your research continue to inspire educators and students around the world. 🌟

06/05/2026

💙☀️ Staff Spotlight: Summer Learning Team ☀️💙

As summer learning programs continue at New Iberia Senior High School and Johnston Hopkins Elementary School, we want to take a moment to recognize the incredible team members working behind the scenes and in classrooms each day to support our students.

A huge thank you goes out to our principals, teachers, tutors, test administrators, nurses, occupational therapists, physical therapists, SPED paraprofessionals, secretaries, cafeteria managers and technicians, and bus operators who continue dedicating their summer to helping students learn, grow, and succeed. 🌟

Summer programs would not be possible without the teamwork, care, flexibility, and commitment shown by each of these individuals. Your hard work is making a difference in the lives of students across Iberia Parish every single day.

Thank you for continuing to help us Grow Great Minds all summer long. 💙