From Bossier Parish Schools:
Two Bossier Parish educators have been selected as 2021 Teacher and Principal of the Year semi-finalists by the Louisiana Department of Education, a testament to their commitment to student success.
Mallory Cooper, a sixth grade science teacher at Haughton Middle School for the past eight years, said she cannot imagine doing anything else. “It’s a job I love and it’s easy to do a job you love,” Cooper said. The 2021 Teacher of the Year semi-finalist went on to say, “My hope is to show my students that even if they don’t master a concept right away, they can work hard and grow over time and that’s just as valuable as getting the answer right on the first try.”
Principal of the Year semi-finalist Kimmie Smith has served as the leader of Legacy Elementary since 2017 and been in education for 25 years. A proud product of Bossier Parish Schools herself, Smith points to a quote that has been her mantra since undergraduate studies:
“‘Children do not care what you know, until they know that you care.’ This statement made a huge impact on my thoughts as an inspiring educator,” Smith explained. “It became the basis for my educational philosophy and has proven true throughout my career. Life is about relationships and it is my desire to create an atmosphere where our students are loved and nurtured as they are encouraged and challenged to reach their greatest potential.”
“These two educators are exceptional. Their love for children and desire for them to succeed is genuine and they exemplify the teaching profession,” added Bossier Schools Superintendent Mitch Downey. “We are proud to call them our own and wish them the best as they advance from the district to state level, although they have already won in our book.”
Each year the Louisiana Department of Education, in partnership with Dream Teachers and Louisiana Association of Principals, recognize and celebrate the state’s most exceptional educators through the Teacher and Principal of the Year programs.
Photos Courtesy of: Bossier Parish Schools
Mallory Cooper
Kimmie Smith
