Sandy Hollaway, Bernel Cook, Alisha Butler and Dr. Shirley Lewis, pose for a photo at a back-to-school event. Two individuals wear teal event T-shirts, one wears a green blazer with white pants, and one wears a dark suit with a light-colored tie. The group stands between flag displays, with a colorful balloon garland decorating the background. The photo was taken inside a meeting space with neutral-colored walls and flooring.

Students First. SSD Back to School Welcome and Breakfast

Louisiana Special School District

August 6, 2026

This Tuesday, we kicked off the new school year with an inspiring Back-to-School Welcome & Breakfast focused on what matters most, our students!

We were honored to welcome Sandy Holloway, SSD Board President, and Bernell Cook, State Director of Education for Louisiana, as our guest speakers. Their encouraging words reminded us that student success begins with strong partnerships, dedicated educators, and a shared commitment to excellence.

Ms. Holloway, Mr. Cook, and Dr. Shirly Lewis each recognized the 2027 Teacher of the Year, Ms. Alisha Butler who is a teacher at the Louisiana School for then Visually Impaired.

As we begin this new school year, we look forward to creating opportunities, building relationships, and helping every student reach their full potential. Here's to a fantastic year ahead putting students first.