After nearly a decade of transformative leadership and more than 33 years in public education,
Evangeline Parish School District Superintendent Darwan T. Lazard has announced his retirement,
effective June 30, 2026.
Since assuming the role on January 1, 2017, Lazard has led with vision, integrity, and a steadfast
commitment to student success. His decision to retire comes after “much prayerful consideration and
reflection,” along with a desire to devote more time to pressing family matters.
Under Lazard’s leadership, Evangeline Parish Schools have not only remained stable—but have soared.
The district consistently maintained a strong “B” rating from the Louisiana Department of Education and
achieved remarkable academic momentum, including earning the 2 nd highest academic growth in the state
in 2023. In 2025, the district was ranked 16th in Louisiana by Money, Inc, and distinguished itself by
achieving 1st in the state for “Exceptional Growth in Literacy” - a testament to a persistent focus on
teaching and learning.
Lazard’s excellence did not go unnoticed. He was honored Regional Superintendent of the Year in both
2021 and 2022 by the Louisiana Association of School Superintendents (LASS). This recognition reflects
both his visionary leadership and the collective strength, commitment and success of the district he
faithfully served.
Reflecting on his educational journey, Lazard described his service as “one of the greatest honors” of his
professional life. He consistently emphasized that the district’s success was the result of a united effort
engaging all stakeholders: school board members, educators, staff, families, and community partners
working together with purpose and pride.
His tenure leaves a visible and lasting imprint across the parish. From long awaited facility upgrades to
innovative expansions, Lazard championed progress at every level. Among the highlights: a new track at
Ville Platte High School (the first in nearly 40 years), along with the first ever track at Pine Prairie High
School. Also major renovations and air conditioning improvements at Mamou High School’s gym; the
addition of a gym and classroom wing at W.W. Stewart Elementary; additions and renovations at James
Stephens Montessori, upgrades to the Foreman Multipurpose Building at Bayou Chicot Elementary, and
the establishment of the Evangeline Reimagine Academy as a middle school for Ville Platte students.
Beyond buildings and accolades, the true measure of Lazard’s legacy is found in people. Under his
visionary leadership, excellence was cultivated, recognized, and elevated. In just 11 years, the district
produced 12 Teachers and Principals of the Year who rose above district competition to earn placement at
the state level—the highest record in Louisiana.
That same spirit of excellence extended across all roles. In both 2024 and 2025, the district’s Support
Persons of the Year competed and advanced to the state level, with each earning distinction as a state
finalist. The culture of achievement did not stop at academics. Under Lazard’s leadership, the district
celebrated championships in athletics and band—clear evidence of a well rounded commitment to
excellence that echoes in classrooms, on fields, and on stages.
As he prepares to transition, Lazard remains committed to ensuring continuity, stability, and continued
success for the district he loves. He expressed deep gratitude to the Evangeline Parish School Board and
the entire community for their trust, partnership, and steadfast support throughout his years of service.
“It has truly been a privilege to serve this district and community,” Lazard shared.
With nine and a half years as Superintendent and thirty-three and a half years in public education, Darwan
T. Lazard leaves behind more than a record of achievement—he leaves a legacy of growth, stability,
dedication, progress, and possibility to student success in Evangeline Parish and across Acadiana for
generations to come.
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