Alexandria, LA (RPSB) - The Louisiana Department of Education named its 24 finalists for the 2024 Louisiana Students of the Year competition today. The honorees include one 5th, 8th, and 12th grader from each of the state’s eight BESE regions. 

Rapides Parish represented Region 5 with Ansley Elder being named the finalist. Ansley attends Cherokee Elementary where she is highly involved on and off campus. 

According to Cherokee Elementary’s principal, Kim Lord, “Ansley's collaborative spirit and strong communication skills make her an effective and respected leader. She approaches challenges with a positive attitude, perseverance, and a genuine desire to learn and grow.”

Ansley participates in the Music Club, BETA, 4-H, Student Council, Flag Patrol, Girls on the Run, and Cherokee Cheerleading, and is a member of the Steps by Stephanie Competitive Dance Team, and Calvary Baptist Church KidzJam. 

“Ansley has the energy to light up a room and to make a difference in our community! She is already showing strong leadership qualities in the 5th grade. Her focus is not solely only on grades, but on impacting those around her. It’s this perspective and drive that makes her an outstanding representative for Rapides Parish and for Region 5,” says Superintendent Jeff Powell. 

Finalists will convene on April 10 at the River Center Branch Library in Baton Rouge for an awards ceremony and the announcement of the Louisiana Students of the Year winners from each grade.

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