Excellence Award

All year long, we celebrated outstanding individuals and groups with Excellence Awards for their dedication to inspiring, preparing, and propelling every student toward a future filled with possibility.

Hear from honorees about what this recognition means to them how it continues to motivate and inspire those around them.

Thank you to everyone who helped us Launch Excellence in 2025-26! 

Kadee Burkhardt brings extraordinary creativity, dedication, and passion to her work with students each day. She spends countless hours designing immersive themed lessons and displays that transform the library into unforgettable learning experiences. Her commitment extends far beyond the school day. Kadee often works late nights and weekends and uses her own resources to create these experiences, all for one reason: to see the wonder and joy on her students’ faces.

Kristi Tanguis never misses a chance to make a student’s day. Whether she’s offering encouragement, lifting a student’s spirits, or simply being the positive presence they need in the moment, she has a remarkable ability to meet each child where they are.

Her impact extends far beyond the classroom. Through her actions and example, she inspires not only students but also the faculty and staff around her. What began as a career in teaching has grown into a meaningful leadership role as assistant principal, where she continues to shape the culture of Mandeville Elementary, the place she proudly calls her home away from home.

Terrence Gordon brings a contagious positivity and enthusiasm that makes him a joy to be around and creates an engaging, supportive environment for both students and colleagues. He sets high expectations and is known for making math fun and understandable, helping students build confidence and achieve success. His impact is evident in student performance, with a remarkable number reaching academic goals under his guidance. 

Cheryl Williams is a dedicated 3rd grade students with exceptionalities (SWE) teacher that creates a supportive and personalized learning environment where every student feels seen, valued, and encouraged to grow. Through strong relationships and tailored instruction, she helps students build both academic skills and confidence.

Nurse Amanda Overby is truly a bright light at Slidell High! She brings a positive attitude and a comforting presence to campus every single day. Dependable, thorough, and professional, she excels at her work while also going above and beyond to support her teammates. Her dedication to the students is unwavering and she embodies excellence in everything she does.

For 30 years, Sandra Becker has quietly and consistently changed lives by showing up every single day for her students and colleagues. As a sixth grade ELA teacher at Lancaster Elementary, she creates a classroom where students feel safe, supported, and empowered to find their voices, while building strong relationships that families trust and teammates deeply value.

Crossing Guard Shakayla Mosely is often the very first face students and parents see in the morning, and she starts their day with a genuine smile and a wave. Rain, sleet, fog, or sunshine, she never hesitates to step out and make sure students arrive and leave safely at Sixth Ward Elementary. Shakayla has built wonderful relationships with the bus drivers, stays connected by attending school events, and is truly a bright spot in the school community.

Bookkeeper Karen Stelly has an unwavering dedication to Monteleone Junior High. Karen’s connection to her school dates back to its opening, first as a parent and volunteer, then as PTA Co-President, school secretary, and now bookkeeper. In every role, she has demonstrated a deep commitment to supporting students, staff, and the community. 

Officer Shellie McCloud is a constant, uplifting presence at Abney Elementary. Her joyful interactions help create a welcoming and safe environment for everyone on campus. She offers steady guidance to students and encourages them academically, behaviorally, and emotionally. Officer McCloud truly embodies dedication, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to student safety and success. 

School-to-Work Coordinator Mary Koepp goes above and beyond to prepare students for life beyond high school, supporting them every step of the way. If there’s an event happening at Covington High, chances are Mary is behind the scenes making it shine. From graduations and homecoming to career days and everything in between, her impact is everywhere on campus.

The custodial team at Bonne Ecole Elementary is the heartbeat of the school. They keep the campus spotless, help with anything and everything, and always do it with a smile.

The Career and College Expo attracts students and families not only from St. Tammany Parish, but also from across southeast Louisiana and even Mississippi. Over the years, the event has continued to grow, thanks to the dedication and coordination of Melissa Strata-Burger and Stacey Alexius from the Curriculum & Instruction Department. Beyond organizing the Expo, they play a vital role in helping students identify their strengths, build confidence, and explore career pathways that lead to future success.

The cafeteria staff at Magnolia Trace Elementary makes sure every child is greeted with a smile, served with kindness, and reminded that they are valued members of the school family. Their care extends far beyond the cafeteria. The team actively supports the school’s Leader in Me program, helping students build leadership skills and positive habits that last a lifetime.

The secretaries and routers in our Transportation Department show up each day ready to tackle anything that comes their way. From the unexpected challenges to the daily details, they handle it all with professionalism, patience, and grace. Their dedication ensures that thousands of children arrive at school ready to learn and return home safely each afternoon. 

Erika Izzio is an extraordinary SWE teacher who demonstrates patience, encouragement, and love to make every student feel valued and capable. Admired by parents and respected by colleagues, she not only supports her students but also uplifts families and the entire school community.

Over the past three decades, Beckie Adams has dedicated herself to serving in a variety of roles across several STPPS campuses. Now as a SWE paraprofessional, she works one on one with students, going above and beyond to ensure they have the support and resources they need to succeed.

A huge congratulations to five exceptional Brock Elementary teachers for receiving the first Excellence Award Medals of the 2025-26 school year!