Southeastern alumna selected as New Teacher of the Year finalist
Monday, May 22, 2023
by: Tonya Lowentritt
HAMMOND – Southeastern Louisiana University alumna Payton Onellion of Denham
Springs has been selected as a finalist for Louisiana New Teacher of the Year by the
Louisiana Department of Education. Onellion, who teaches in Livingston Parish, was
one of only nine finalists selected from across the state. This is the second year
of the state’s New Teacher of the Year program, which recognizes the outstanding contributions
of first-year classroom teachers.
“Schools across Louisiana are beginning to make significant gains thanks to the
commitment of our teachers and principals to remain focused on what matters most –
improving academic outcomes,” said State Superintendent of Education Dr. Cade Brumley.
“Congratulations to Louisiana’s Teacher and Principal of the year semifinalists and
our New Teacher of the Year finalists. They represent the many dedicated professionals
leading our Louisiana Comeback.”
These programs provide an opportunity to acknowledge teachers and leaders who
are making exceptional gains with students, the LDOE explained. School systems from
across the state submitted nominations for the state-level Teacher, Principal and
New Teacher of the Year process.
The New Teacher of the Year finalists, along with the Teacher and Principal of
the Year semifinalists, will be honored at the 17th Annual Cecil J. Picard Educator
Excellence Awards Gala, which will be held at the National World War II Museum in
New Orleans July 22.
