Ouachita Parish School System is pleased to announce the newest Principals of the Year on the district level for the 2024-25 school year.
The awards were announced at the Employees of Distinction Banquet on Tuesday evening at the West Monroe Convention Center. Each school was represented with its Teacher of the Year and Support Person of the Year in attendance, along with their administrators and supporters.
Elementary Principal of the Year is Veronicia Wood from George Welch Elementary. Veronicia began teaching 1st grade in Ouachita Parish in 1999. She has served in many roles, including assistant principal and was named principal of George Welch in 2020. Veronicia is described by her staff and faculty as fair and the ultimate cheerleader with tremendous support for her students and employees. Veronicia earned her Bachelor’s degree from ULM, and her Master’s +30 from Louisiana Tech. Throughout her tenure with the system, Veronicia has always kept the best interests of her students and community as priority.
The 2024-25 Middle School Principal of the Year is Brent May from West Ridge Middle.
Brent began his teaching career in 2008 at the very school he still serves. He became assistant principal in 2016 and principal in 2022. Brent is described as an admirable leader who motivates his faculty to realize a high level of performance ensuring student success. He trusts every student can reach their full potential and accepts nothing but the best effort from all. Brent is a steadfast supporter and recognized leader in his community.
West Ouachita principal Rusty Farrar is the High School Principal of the Year for Ouachita Parish. Rusty was named principal of West Ouachita in 2022. Prior to that, he served as principal and assistant principal in neighboring districts, after beginning his teaching career at West Ouachita High in 2003. As a positive role model, Rusty encourages his staff and students every day to do and be their best. He embraces the mission of his school and the district to ensure that students are college and career ready to succeed in a global community. Rusty is respected and admired by his faculty and community.
Principals of the Year are nominated and voted on by their peers.
AWARD WINNERS:
PRINCIPALS OF THE YEAR:
Elementary School: Veronica Wood, George Welch Elementary
Middle School: Brent May, West Ridge Middle School
High School: Rusty Farrar, West Ouachita High School
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