Teaching has always been a part of the life of Maplewood Elementary principal Lori Young.

“I have fond early memories of playing ‘school’ as a young child… God created a teacher when he created me.”

The importance of a good education – specifically college – was taught to Young by her parents.

“My parents’ inability to attend college themselves inspired them to set a goal for my sister and I to pursue higher education… Their determination to provide me with opportunities they didn’t have themselves instilled in me a strong desire to succeed academically and professionally.”

Both she and her husband graduated from DeQuincy High School. She then went on to attend McNeese State University, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Education, and later her Master’s degree in Educational Leadership.

She has been an educator for 22 years, and started out at Combre-Fondel Elementary and R.W. Vincent Elementary.

One of the reasons that she chose education as a career path is the flexibility it allows in family planning.

“It provided a schedule that aligned well with raising a family.”

After the birth of her twin daughters, she made the decision to stay home to raise her family. When her youngest child reached kindergarten, she returned to teaching.

“The kindergartener is also now a Sulphur teacher at W.W. Lewis Middle.”

Most of her career has been spent at Vincent Settlement Elementary.

In 2014, she made the switch to administration, and began serving as assistant principal there, as well as Moss Bluff Elementary.

Just a year later, she was named Principal of Vinton Elementary. She served there for eight years before moving to Maplewood Elementary School in 2022.

As principal, she serves as the “lead learner.” In her role, she guides not only her faculty, staff and students towards growth, but herself as well.

“The hat an administrator wears can vary moment by moment.”

These hats can range from providing resources, keeping up to date with research and offering “unwavering support to facilitate a positive and nurturing learning atmosphere for all.”

Building a productive educational space is a joyful experience for Young.

“I enjoy the opportunity to build collective teacher efficacy, the shared belief that, together, we have the capacity to positively impact student learning.”

She and her team always make sure the job gets done, but they like to keep the energy light. They find ways to “infuse elements of fun and creativity” into each school day. This makes learning a more memorable and enjoyable adventure for everyone.”

The best part for Young, however, is the strong relationships she has built with students and staff.

“It is incredibly fulfilling, as it allows me to contribute to their growth and success… The feeling of making a meaningful difference in the lives of those I interact with is what keeps me passionate about being an educator.”

Her educator’s philosophy is “rooted in constructivism,” with an emphasis on the importance of active learning and hands-on experiences that support deep learning and comprehension. Providing students with such a high-quality education in their early years is vital.

“I often use the analogy that if we worked in a factory building boxes and my staff fell behind, we’d simply produce fewer boxes. However, education isn’t about assembling boxes; it’s about shaping the futures of children. Falling behind can significantly impact a child’s life trajectory. As educators, we don’t have the luxury of ‘do overs.’ Every day, every moment, and every student’s experience is precious.”

Ensuring students receive exceptional education also benefits her neighborhood by instilling future generations with empathy, social unity and critical thinking.

“Education plays a pivotal role in enhancing and strengthening our Sulphur community. It equips children with the knowledge and skills they need to become effective citizens.”

Young’s days are filled with happiness thanks to her students.

“My elementary students’ candid nature ensures that I never have to second-guess their thoughts. Their presence brings laughter and humility to my days, reminding me of the pure joy in teaching children.”

She said the teachers at Maplewood are “equally crucial.”

Their collaborative spirit and commitment to the Maplewood community create an environment where everyone works together seamlessly, fostering a strong sense of unity and shared purpose. Their dedication is truly inspirational, and their daily contributions are instrumental in the success of our unified mission to grow students.”