The Natchitoches Parish School Board is proud to announce its 2026–2027 Teachers of the Year, recognizing outstanding educators across the district for their dedication to academic excellence, student achievement, and the success of their schools.
This year's District Teachers of the Year are Angela Mitchell of L.P. Vaughn Elementary School, Kristy Strother of NSU Middle Lab, and Tameshia Frederick of Natchitoches Central High School.
District Teachers of the Year
🏆Elementary – Angela "Nicole" Mitchell | L.P. Vaughn
Mrs. Mitchell serves as a kindergarten teacher at L.P. Vaughn Elementary School. Principal Carissa Davis describes her as an exceptional educator who is deeply committed to helping every student reach their fullest potential.
Her dedication to academic excellence is reflected in student achievement, while her willingness to support colleagues and contribute to the overall success of the school makes her an invaluable member of the L.P. Vaughn team. Davis praised Mitchell's commitment to ensuring every Cub learns, grows, and belongs.
🏆Middle School – Kristy Strother | NSU Middle Lab
Mrs. Kristy Strother teaches seventh- and eighth-grade mathematics at NSU Middle Lab and brings 30 years of experience and dedication to education.
Principal Natalie Ducote highlights the lasting relationships Strother builds with her students, noting that many continue to reach out to her for help, advice, and encouragement long after leaving Middle Lab. Ducote also praised her deep knowledge of the curriculum and her ability to meet students where they are while challenging them to reach their full potential.
🏆High School – Tameshia Frederick | Natchitoches Central High School
Mrs. Tameshia Frederick teaches Financial Literacy and Business Math at Natchitoches Central High School. Principal Micah Coleman describes her as the heart of Natchitoches Central, recognizing her commitment to serving students both inside and outside the classroom.
In addition to her instructional responsibilities, Frederick coaches volleyball and track, volunteers to transport student groups to educational opportunities, and has played an instrumental role in improving ACT and WorkKeys scores through her dedication to student achievement. Her passion for students and willingness to go above and beyond exemplify the values of Natchitoches Central.
School-Level Teachers of the Year
The district also recognizes the following educators selected as their respective schools' Teachers of the Year:
Elementary School
Andrea Maley – Fairview Alpha
LaToya Hayes – M.R. Weaver
Lisa Wiggins – NSU E-Lab
Rachal Collins – Provencal
Jennifer Fralia – Marthaville
Middle School
Rebecca Mitchell – Provencal
Christian Broussard – Marthaville
Angel Johnson – Natchitoches Jr. High
Kathleen Brown – Natchitoches Magnet
High School
Donyelle Willis – Lakeview
Lashunda Hobdy – Natchitoches Provisional Learning Center
Early Childhood Teachers of the Year
The following educators are recognized for their dedication to supporting our youngest learners and building strong foundations for lifelong learning:
Cynthia Harmon – L.P. Vaughn
Rebecca Salard – Provencal
Melissa Manasco – Marthaville
New Teachers of the Year
The district is also proud to recognize the following educators as New Teachers of the Year for their contributions and commitment to the teaching profession:
Morgan Maley – L.P. Vaughn
Shy'dae Hammond – M.R. Weaver
Areyona Williams – Natchitoches Jr. High
Elise Vidrine – Lakeview
The Natchitoches Parish School Board congratulates all of this year's honorees and thanks them for their continued commitment to educating, inspiring, and empowering students. Their dedication and hard work make a meaningful difference in classrooms and communities throughout Natchitoches Parish.