The Terrebonne Parish School Board on Oct. 21 recognized Bonnie Maury, a special‑education teacher at Allender Memorial High School, who was nominated by Terrebonne Arc and named the Arc of Louisiana 2025 Educator of the Year.

Terrebonne Arc executive director Marilyn Bismond and Assistant Principal Jacoby Franks joined the presentation and praised Maury’s years of service and leadership in collaborating on the STEP program, a transition‑to‑employment internship pathway for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Bismond said the collaboration helps students “know where they need to go after” leaving the school system and prevents them from “just sitting home doing nothing.”

Several board members commended Maury for her dedication. “Those kids are so lucky to have you,” one board member said, while another added, “You make Ellington and our district and our state very proud.” Maury responded, “I love my kids, and that's where I need to be.”

The recognition highlighted a local partnership between the district and community nonprofit to create long‑term employment and life‑skills pathways for students with disabilities.