Dr. Holly Boffy 2027 Louisiana Principal of the Year

LAFAYETTE, La. - For years, Dr. Holly Boffy has been known as an outstanding teacher, administrator, and community leader. Now, she's been rewarded for her dedication to helping others as she has been named the 2027 Louisiana High School Principal of the Year by the Louisiana Department of Education.

Currently the principal of the W.D. & Mary Baker Smith Career Center, Boffy received the statewide honor Saturday during the 20th Annual Cecil J. Picard Educator Excellence Awards Gala. The award recognizes exceptional school leaders whose vision, innovation and commitment create meaningful opportunities for students.

Dr. Holly Boffy's Impact at the Baker Smith Career Center

Under Boffy’s leadership, the Career Center has continued to expand pathways that prepare students for college, high-demand careers and life beyond graduation. Under her leadership, the Career Center has significantly broadened student opportunities, including an 800% increase in industry-based credential attainment and the development of a successful HiSET program that provides students with another pathway to earn a high school equivalency credential and continue toward college, career training or employment.

During the 2026-27 school year, she will continue serving as principal of the Career Center while also leading E.J. Sam Accelerated School.

Dr. Boffy has also served as a member of the Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) from 2012 to 2024.

What the Superintendent and LPSS Said About the Honor

“Dr. Boffy believes deeply in the potential of every student, and she has built a culture where that belief is turned into real opportunities,” Superintendent Francis Touchet, Jr. said. “This honor is incredibly well deserved, and we could not be prouder to see her leadership recognized across Louisiana.”

Get our free mobile app

Boffy’s recognition reflects the strength of career and technical education within the Lafayette Parish School System and the district’s commitment to ensuring students graduate prepared for their next step.

Also Honored: Alysa LeBlanc & Kandice Named Finalists

Also representing LPSS at the gala was Alysa LeBlanc of Milton Elementary/Middle School, who was recognized as a finalist for the 2027 Louisiana Teacher of the Year. Her selection as one of Louisiana’s top educators reflects her excellence in the classroom and commitment to student success.

Additionally, Kandice Broussard from North Vermilion Middle School was a finalist in the m Middle School Principal of the Year category. We also send our big congratulations to her for being in the Top 3 in that category.

9 Louisiana School Field Trips Acadiana Still Remembers

For a lot of us who grew up in Acadiana, there was one day on the school calendar that always stood out...the annual field trip.

It didn't matter if you were headed to a museum, a nature trail, or...anywhere at all really. Climbing onto a school bus with your friends meant you were in for an adventure, and those memories have a way of sticking with you.

We asked you on Facebook to share the school field trips you remember most, and the responses were packed with nostalgia. Some places are still welcoming students today, while other places are sadly no longer in operation.

One destination, however, caught nearly everyone by surprise.

Gallery Credit: Michael Dot Scott