2024-2025 Teacher of the Year Semifinalists Announced

The Louisiana Department of Education has selected Bayou Woods Elementary’s Carra “Beth” Melton as a 2024-2025 State Teacher of the Year Semifinalist, which honors educators who are making exceptional gains with students and demonstrating their commitment to student success.

“It is such an honor to have Carra “Beth” Melton representing the St. Tammany Parish Public School System as a state semifinalist,” said Superintendent Frank Jabbia. “She is an outstanding teacher who is passionate about working with kids and helping them achieve success for their future.”

Carra “Beth” Melton is currently a third-grade teacher at Bayou Woods Elementary and the STPPS District Elementary Teacher of the Year. She is in her 22nd year of teaching and has served as a student-teacher advisor. Her passion for working with students and adults of all ages and abilities outside the classroom shines through her community service work. She is actively involved in Ainsley’s Angels of America, Camp Able Coast, and Buddy Ball. She spends her weekends running 5K’s, 10K’s and half marathons to benefit Ainsley’s Angels. She received her Bachelor of Science in Horticulture from Southeastern Louisiana University and in 2002 received her Alternative Certification from the same university allowing her to pursue her passion of teaching children.

Melton is among 24 teachers selected to continue in the competition for Louisiana Teacher of the Year. On May 28, 2024, the Louisiana Department of Education will announce the 18 finalists for Teacher of the Year. On July 27, 2024, the Louisiana Teacher of the Year will be announced at the Educator Excellence Awards Gala in New Orleans.