Assumption High School Hosts Louisiana’s Aspiring Educational Leaders

Assumption High School Principal Dr. Corey Crochet and Louisiana Department of Education Consultant Glenda Newman recently organized and presented the discussions, classroom observations and collaborative case studies for those Aspiring Principal Fellows participating in this year’s elite state program.

Assumption High School recently hosted the state’s 2025-2026 cohort of Aspiring Principal Fellows for a full day of collaboration and case study exercises to advance their leadership skills in the field of public education.

Around 25 participants from across the state who aspire to advance their leadership skills for greater roles in their districts and throughout the state were present.

As fellows in the state’s elite program, they have committed to a year-long journey of collaboration, exploring best practices with regional and national experts, and immersive school visits, where they work hand-in-hand with exemplary principals.

Assumption High School Principal Dr. Corey Crochet, standing, shared with this year’s Aspiring Principal Fellows some things they can expect to encounter as part of their new role as school principal. Pictured seated are, left to right, LDOE Consultant Glenda Newman, Ouachita Parish’s Quilwanti Lewis, who with her district Office of Juvenile Justice; Terrebonne Parish’s Valerie Scott, assistant principal of Ellender; and Jessica Thibodeaux, high school curriculum director for Assumption Parish Schools.

Assumption High School Principal Dr. Corey Crochet presented the participants with a thorough list of expectations for school principals, often sharing personal stories and insights. He also gave participants a tour of the school, allowing them to observe classroom instruction across several curricula.

“It is our goal for participants to emerge with a robust leadership portfolio, valuable insights from Louisiana’s leading principals, and a strong network of lifelong colleagues, said Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE) Consultant Glenda Newman.

“We want to thank Superintendent Dr. John Barthelemy, Mrs. Jessica Thibodeaux, and Principal Dr. Corey Crochet for working with us to share the insights that have made them so effective in what they do for Assumption Parish Schools,” she said.

Newman noted that the LDOE only selected two school site visits for the program, and Assumption High School was one of those chosen as a prized destination.

This year’s fellows are among the state’s fifth cohort of aspiring leaders. The LDOE started the program five years ago because of a strong belief that student achievement and teacher retention are closely linked to the quality of leadership school principals provide.

“This program aims to equip aspiring school leaders with the knowledge and skills necessary to confidently step into the principal role and effectively support students and teachers,” Newman said.

Newman said all content provided to the participants is aligned with Louisiana’s education priorities and the Louisiana Leader Rubric, emphasizing the principal’s role in instructional leadership that drives student achievement.