Six elementary school teachers were honored on May 4, 2021, by Cabrini High School students. The Distinguished Educator Award is presented annually to teachers who have done an outstanding job preparing their students to succeed in high school. Cabrini High School’s 2021 Distinguished Educators include:
Angelle Delaneuville St. Joan of Arc, New Orleans (formerly) Riverside Academy (currently) Nominated by Kamryn Scales, 2022
Jennifer Dolese Audubon Charter School, New Orleans Nominated by Marley Marsalis, 2024
Michele Jones Hynes Charter School, New Orleans Nominated by Jordyn Blatcher, 2023
Eric Schroeder Morris Jeff Community School, New Orleans Nominated by Sienna Green, Paris Farria and Sage Villavicencio, 2024
Jeune Ural St. Dominic School, New Orleans Nominated by Coco Harris, 2024
Denitra Wilson St. Leo the Great School, New Orleans Nominated by Shania Phillips, 2023
Each year, Cabrini students who demonstrate outstanding character and hold a GPA of 3.5 or higher are given the opportunity to nominate an elementary school teacher who has had a positive impact on their lives. In the nomination, students are asked to share why they selected the teacher and the impact the nominee has had in their lives and preparation for high school and beyond. “When I was diagnosed with an illness and could no longer attend school in person, Ms. Delaneuville took it upon herself to come to my house and catch me up on my work every week,” said Cabrini High School student, Kamryn Scales. “If it would not have been for her, I would not be where I am today and probably would not have even graduated middle school. She was much more than a teacher; she was a mentor and my personal angel,” said Scales.
The 2021 Distinguished Educators were recognized during a gathering of family and friends in Cabrini’s Sacred Heart Chapel followed by a reception in the Esplanade building.
“Mr. Schroeder taught me structure, self-discipline, and most importantly, that you are worth more than your grades. He did not favor or treat anyone differently; he was just a teacher who wanted to see his students succeed,” said Cabrini High School student, Sage Villavicencio. Cabrini student Paris Farria add, “Mr. Schroeder not only prepared me for high school, but the real world. He kept me on my toes and made sure I was giving my all in everything I did. Whenever I needed help, he was there, no matter the subject or situation.”
Shania Phillips reflected on the impact her teacher from St. Leo the Great had on her math skills. “I was able to enter into Cabrini my pre-freshman year taking Algebra I Honors, a freshman honors class, because of Ms. Wilson’s effective teaching,” said Phillips. “Her teaching still plays a big roll in my success since a lot of lessons in math are based upon extending our knowledge we have learned from previous years. Because of her, math is my best subject, and I am able to succeed because of the amazing foundation she has created for me.”
“At first, I thought I should nominate a middle school teacher, but I realized without Ms. Jennifer teaching me Social Studies with the Atlas in first grade, I would not be in Western Civilization Honors,” said Cabrini High School student Marley Marsalis. “Without Ms. Jennifer noticing my love for writing and challenging me to do more, I would not be in English I Honors. Throughout my years as her student, not only did I gain knowledge to excel, but I also developed a close relationship with my teacher. For this reason, I believe that a good teacher not only teaches well but develops a relationship with their students.”
Cabrini High School President, Jack Truxillo, addressed the Distinguished Educators and guests. “You have made such an impression and had such an impact on your former students that they chose to go through the nominating process. That itself speaks volumes. The influence you have daily on students is immeasurable. The terms parent, protector, counselor, nurse, referee, disciplinarian, coach, leader, expert, task master, time keeper, planner, janitor, decorator, supervisor and finally, instructor all fit in your job description. But, as we all know those are just a sampling of the jobs you do. Be assured that the work you do is valued. It is recognized.”