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September 29, 2022Feature a Speaker: Katherine Whitney and Doug Swenson
October 5, 2022Honoring educators of the past, present and future. Over the summer, Terrebonne RTEA recognized two local students for their continued education. Plus, one of their own members was posthumously recognized for their service to education.
Terrebonne RTEA awarded two $1,000 scholarships for the 2022-2023 academic year. DeAndre Johnson (majoring in Electrical Engineering) and Adam Woods (majoring in education) were both recipients of the scholarships. Both students are graduates of H.L. Bourgeois in Gray, La.
“Gaining an education is the key to being who you want to be in life,” Edna Walker, historian of Terrebonne RTEA. “So, continue reaching for the stars! Knowledge is power.”
On June 29, 2022, the Terrebonne Parish School Board recognized James E. Charles, retired teacher and past president of Terrebonne RTEA. The recognition included a dedication ceremony naming Southdown Elementary School Mall and Driveway in his honor. RTEA members and Vice-President Joyce Judy Charles-Bolden attended the ceremony.
Mr. Charles dedicated his life to students of Terrebonne parish. He began his career in education as a math teacher at Southdown High School of which he is an alumnus. Mr. Charles would then serve in the positions of Elementary math curriculum specialist, assistant principal and coordinator of migrant education. In 1998, Mr. Charles was named the very first principal of Ellender Memorial High School. He also served as supervisor of secondary of adult and vocational education, assistant superintendent and interim superintendent of Terrebonne Parish Schools in his career.
Mr. Charles created several enrichment programs for many underprivileged and at-risk youth in the community. He was a member of Terrebonne RTEA for 20 years. Mr. Charles earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Southern University. He also received an honorary doctorate from Southern University in 2019
Continuing to recognize and support students as they continue their education or begin their own careers in education can be fulfilling for retired teachers. When the community recognizes and supports retired teachers in turn, it’s a full circle moment.
For more information about Terrebonne RTEA, contact Mr. Ernest Brown at (985) 381-6886.
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