Mercedes Lartigue-Sinegal, 35, became a teacher to pass on her fervor for knowledge to young people.

As a student (then and now), she is fueled by a desire to learn and give positivity back to the world through her studies. The doors of possibility that open during learning keep her excited and in motion.

“I have a passion for learning and a desire to make a positive impact on students by guiding and supporting them,” she said. “I find fulfillment in helping students develop their knowledge and skills, which will essentially change lives through education.”

It didn’t hurt that her path to becoming an educator was paved by the footsteps of her mom, grandmother and great-grandmother, who were also devoted teachers. She was moved to continue her family’s legacy of education.

She was born, raised and currently lives in Lake Charles. She attended Barbe High School first two years of high school and finished out her Calcasieu Parish education at Washington-Marion Magnet High School in 2008.

She earned a Bachelor of Science in business management with a concentration in human resources and a minor in psychology at McNeese State University. In the present day, she is furthering her education at Liberty University, where she is pursuing a Master of Arts in elementary education.

With the turning of the new year, she has entered the second half of her third year as a kindergarten teacher at Southwest Louisiana Charter Academy.

She is drawn to teaching young students because she is the mother of four young children. Lartigue-Sinegal believes that devoting oneself to the youth is an investment that results in the highest returns.

“I also believe that every child should have an equal chance to achieve their goals, and it is our responsibility to set them up for success.”

She fosters an environment of respect in the classroom by implementing “strong routines and procedures.” Her lessons and operations are organized to make the classroom a learning incubator warmed by productivity and encouragement.

The space is positive, safe and inviting. There, students are free to think critically and creatively.

“My students know that they are loved and that they can be and become who they want to be.”

The care she takes in creating an ideal classroom aligns with her philosophy. Each child is unique. Each child has different needs. By imbuing the room with the ingredients needed for social, emotional and intellectual development, Lartigue-Sinegal is able to push students to reach their highest potential.

“Students are welcome to express their opinions and take chances in a secure setting,” she continued. “I act as a facilitator, so they should be free to make decisions and allow their curiosity to guide their education.”

She has a whole archive of advice for future and current educators: prioritize building strong relationships with students, continually seek new knowledge, adapt to their students’ needs, foster a positive classroom environment, take care of your own well-being, and reach out to colleagues for support when needed.

“Never forget that you can have a big impact on young minds by learning to meet the needs of each individual student and promoting critical thinking.”