Recently, the St. James Parish School System visited by Acting State Superintendent, Ollie Tyler. Tyler was appointed to this position when former State Superintendent Paul Pastorek resigned.

Tyler’s visit was prompted by an email request by Melissa Aubert, behavioral strategist, for the district. She visited Vacherie Elementary School and Gramercy Elementary School and while there toured the facilities as well as delivered a profound speech to groups of sixth grade girls. VES sixth grade girls are involved in an organization called “Do Something.org.” This organization encourages our students to give back to their communities by performing some type of service.

Tyler is saturated with a wealth of knowledge and stories that would inspire even those who lack hope and purpose. She truly spoke from the heart and the power of her words is still reverberating in our hearts and minds. She is a firm believer that relationship building is the key to student achievement. Tyler stated, “I always knew I wanted to be a teacher.” She told the students that they can be anything they want to be with hard work and dedication. She also encouraged them to write down their goals and pursue them until they are achieved.