Kiley Altier named Louisiana's 2024 State Teacher of the Year for innovative education initiatives

The Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) convened on December 10, 2024, to discuss key initiatives and updates regarding educator effectiveness. The meeting highlighted the importance of supporting teachers and enhancing educational experiences for students across the state.

The session began with a recognition of Kiley Altier, a first-grade teacher at McKinley Elementary School in Baton Rouge, who was honored as Louisiana's 2024 State Teacher of the Year. Altier, who holds a Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education and a Master's in Elementary Education, has made significant contributions to her students' learning environments. She has secured over $80,000 in grants, which she has utilized to create innovative educational projects, including a garden with a mobile kitchen and outdoor classrooms. Her commitment to personalized learning is evident in her use of virtual reality technology and her efforts to bring experts into her classroom for enriching experiences.

The committee discussed the impact of Altier's work, particularly her dedication to literacy and her unique approach to teaching, which is informed by her own experiences with dyslexia. Her initiatives, such as starting a garden club and co-founding an after-school reading program, demonstrate her leadership and commitment to fostering a love of reading among students.

Following the recognition of Altier, the meeting proceeded to address various agenda items focused on improving educator effectiveness statewide. Discussions included strategies for professional development, the implementation of new teaching standards, and the importance of mentorship programs for new teachers.

The committee emphasized the need for ongoing support and resources for educators to ensure they can meet the diverse needs of their students. Key decisions made during the meeting included plans for future training sessions and the establishment of a task force to evaluate current educator effectiveness measures.

In conclusion, the December 10 meeting underscored the vital role of dedicated educators like Kiley Altier in shaping the future of Louisiana's education system. The committee's discussions and decisions aim to enhance the support provided to teachers, ultimately benefiting students across the state.