JSM’s shining star

By News Staff on Monday, August 4, 2025
Soileau is honored as Teacher of the Year Semi-Finalist
  • Melanie Soileau, of James Stephens Montessori, is pictured with some of her gifts at the awards gala in New Orleans. (Photo courtesy of Grace Sibley)
    Melanie Soileau, of James Stephens Montessori, is pictured with some of her gifts at the awards gala in New Orleans. (Photo courtesy of Grace Sibley)
    Staff Report With hearts full of pride and applause echoing from Evangeline Parish to New Orleans, Melanie Soileau was celebrated as a State Teacher of the Year Semi-Finalist at the prestigious 19th Annual Cecil J. Picard Educator Excellence Awards Gala, held Saturday, July 27, at the World War II Museum. “I don’t just teach ABCs and 123s,” Soileau said, “I help my students find the co...

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