News Summary
At the 19th Annual Cecil J. Picard Educator Excellence Awards Gala in New Orleans, three remarkable educators from Louisiana were honored for their significant contributions to education. Regena Hartley Beard was named the 2026 Louisiana Teacher of the Year, Justin Wax received the 2026 Louisiana Principal of the Year award, and Olivia Francois was recognized as the 2026 Louisiana New Teacher of the Year. Their innovative teaching methods and leadership have made a lasting impact on their students and communities.
New Orleans – Three exceptional educators from the Capital Area of Louisiana have been honored at the 19th Annual Cecil J. Picard Educator Excellence Awards Gala for their outstanding contributions to education. Regena Hartley Beard, Justin Wax, and Olivia Francois received accolades in recognition of their innovative teaching methods and leadership skills, which have significantly impacted their students and communities.
2026 Louisiana Teacher of the Year: Regena Hartley Beard
Regena Hartley Beard, a fifth-grade science and sixth-grade robotics teacher at Copper Mill Elementary in the Zachary Community School District, has been named the 2026 Louisiana Teacher of the Year. Beard has gained recognition for her innovative approach to STEM and science education, engaging students through hands-on learning and encouraging a passion for technology and science. Her excellence in teaching was previously acknowledged when she won the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching.
2026 Louisiana Principal of the Year: Justin Wax
Justin Wax, principal of Denham Springs Junior High in Livingston Parish, received the title of 2026 Louisiana Principal of the Year. Under his leadership, Denham Springs Junior High has achieved national recognition, including being named a 2024 Top Gains Honoree. The school has also consistently appeared on U.S. News & World Report’s Best Middle Schools list, highlighting Wax’s commitment to educational excellence and student achievement.
2026 Louisiana New Teacher of the Year: Olivia Francois
Olivia Francois, a 10th-grade civics teacher at Dutchtown High School in Ascension Parish, was awarded the title of 2026 Louisiana New Teacher of the Year. A proud graduate of Dutchtown High School, Francois has quickly made a name for herself in her first year of teaching by demonstrating strong leadership skills and a student-first approach. Her dedication to her students has earned her recognition as a promising new talent in Louisiana’s educational landscape.
About the Gala
The announcements regarding these prestigious awards were made during the 19th Annual Cecil J. Picard Educator Excellence Awards Gala, held in New Orleans. The gala is hosted by the Louisiana Department of Education and Dream Teachers, showcasing remarkable educators dedicated to improving the lives of students across the state.
Impact on Louisiana Education
The awards celebrate educators who are making lasting impacts on students, schools, and communities throughout Louisiana. The Louisiana Department of Education is committed to honoring educators, school leaders, and staff who embody the spirit of making a meaningful difference in the lives of their students. This event emphasizes the importance of recognizing and supporting those who contribute to the advancement of educational excellence in the state.
Future Perspective
As Louisiana continues to navigate the evolving educational landscape, the recognition of outstanding educators like Beard, Wax, and Francois serves as a testament to the hard work and dedication evident in classrooms across the state. Their accomplishments provide inspiration for both current and future educators, aiming to create an educational environment that fosters learning and development for all students.
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Additional Resources
- KPLC: Two Local Educators Honored with Teacher Year Awards
- WAFB: Three Local Educators Honored at Louisiana’s Best 2026 Excellence Gala
- Business Wire: National Science Teaching Association Celebrates 2025 Teacher Awards Honorees
- Wikipedia: Education in Louisiana
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Teacher
