Ouachita Parish School System is proud to announce our 2023-24 New Teachers of the Year for the district. These teachers are in their first year not only in the district, but in their careers.
The High School Teacher of the Year is Ms. Brittany Powell, a freshman teacher at Ouachita Parish High School. Ms. Powell teaches AP U.S. Government & Politics and Civics.
“From the very beginning of the school year, I have been working to create an environment for my students where they would feel comfortable and eager to learn,” Ms. Powell said. “I have worked to create engaging activities that encourage creativity and discussion, and pushed for my students to think for themselves. Why? Such skills are necessary, not just for class, but for life. I want them to be able to think and learn for themselves.”
Ms. Powell graduated this past May from the University of Louisiana at Monroe with a Bachelor’s Degree in Secondary Education, with a focus in Social Studies. She graduated with a 3.86 GPA and was on the President’s List for 5 semesters.
“(At ULM) I learned more about the content I would be teaching and all the work it takes to be a teacher,” Powell said. “I started to form an even deeper gratitude for those who taught me. Through all of this, I began to develop a deeper understanding of the necessity of education. Which is the biggest driving point in what and how my classroom is run.”
Mrs. Powell puts her students into the roles of government to help them learn proactively. Two of her favorite lessons are the Law of Activity and the Presidential Communication Activity. The Law of Activity is where students act as members of Congress and make laws that they think are needed at the school. The Presidential Communication Activity is a lesson where Mrs. Powell challenges her students to act as the President and the Cabinet and are asked to create a speech to address the nation about different topics.
“She empowers her students with knowledge, fosters critical thinking, and creates a positive environment that is conducive to learning,” said Charles Wright, Ouachita principal. “Ms. Powell incorporates technology, creative teaching methods, and real-world applications into her lessons to ensure that her students are not only prepared for their AP exams, but also equipped with valuable life skills.
“Ms. Powell is well liked by all of the faculty and staff at Ouachita. She is a team-player and works well with everyone in the History Department. She contributes valuable knowledge and information to her coworkers during PLC meetings, and works diligently to plan lessons that will ensure that all of her students succeed.”
Ms. Powell is also a product of the Ouachita Parish School System, graduating from West Monroe High School in 2019.
The New Teacher of the Year program through the Louisiana Department of Education recognizes and celebrates some of the state’s most exceptional new educators. These candidates reflect excellence and expertise in the field, guiding students of all backgrounds and abilities to achieve success.
Ms. Powell will now advance to the state-level competition, which will take place in Spring 2024.
Additional settings for Safari Browser.
