2025 Red Stick Mom Teacher of the Year Finalists!
We received some amazing nominees for our Red Stick Mom Teacher of the Year campaign … nominated by parents, students, colleagues, neighbors, and friends … all who have made a difference in the lives of students and who motivate and inspire those around them. Selecting the top 10 finalists from all of the nominations proved to be a very difficult task.
A team of objective judges will determine the Red Stick Mom Teacher of the Year from the 10 finalists below, and the winner will be announced on Monday, April 28th!
Top 10 Finalists
Janae Hoskins – Baton Rouge Center for Visual and Performing Arts, East Baton Rouge Parish School System
{Nominated by :: Sydney Hebert}
Brandi Aydell – Sacred Heart of Jesus in East Baton Rouge Parish
{Nominated by :: Kelsi Duhon} It is with great joy and heartfelt admiration that I nominate Mrs. Brandi Aydell for Teacher of the Year. Mrs. Aydell is the kind of teacher who changes lives before children even realize it. In her early learning classroom, she lays the foundation not just for academics, but for a lifelong love of learning. Every day, she brings patience, creativity, and an endless supply of encouragement to her students, meeting each child where they are and helping them grow in confidence and curiosity.
Her love of gardening beautifully mirrors the way she nurtures her students—gently planting seeds of kindness, resilience, and wonder. Mrs. Aydell teaches her students that with care and patience, amazing things can bloom, both in the garden and within themselves.
But what truly sets Mrs. Aydell apart is the way she shows up outside the classroom. She celebrates her students’ lives beyond school by attending their birthday parties, cheering them on, and making them feel seen and loved. Her presence reminds each child that they matter, not just as students, but as people. Mrs. Aydell is also a powerful role model for parents. She partners with families with honesty and compassion, showing them how to support their children’s growth with love, structure, and encouragement. She gives parents the gift of hope and the reassurance that their children are in caring, capable hands.
Mrs. Brandi Aydell doesn’t just teach—she transforms. Her classroom is a place where small hands and big dreams are guided by a heart full of passion. She makes an impact that will be felt for generations to come. There is no one more deserving of the title Teacher of the Year.
Tara Pena – BASIS Materra in East Baton Rouge
{Nominated by :: Jennifer Kirkpatrick} My son has autism. He is very smart and he does not have an IEP. Thanks to Mrs. Tara Pena, one of the greatest, kindest kinder teachers at Basis, he is thriving. He is getting straight A’s. He has two best friends. He knows that it’s Mrs. Pena’s way or the highway. There is a sigh of relief to know he is in a safe place in her classroom. I know she will go above and beyond for my son and all the students she has. It takes a great person to have the patience to do what she does, and she does it day in and day out. All of the kids love her! The parents love her. She tells them about her trips to see the sloths (that she loves), opens their minds to new things, and lets them explore and come up with ideas on their own to succeed with her great guidance.
Mrs. Pena does an outstanding job in as an educator, inside and outside of the classroom. My son is ready for 1st grade because of Mrs Pena. We wish every teacher could have the kindness that she provides to her students. I wish her all the best because she deserves it for everything she does for our kids.
Richard Smith – Zachary High School, Zachary Community Schools
{Nominated by :: Amelia Dupre, Daniel Behr, Katelyn Agazzi & Adon Dunaway} Mr. Richard Smith is more than just an 11th grade U.S. History teacher. He is a mentor, motivator, and a true champion for his students. He is funny, knowledgeable, and chill.
Mr. Smith exemplifies what it means to be an outstanding educator—combining deep knowledge, a passion for teaching, and a genuine kindness that makes every student feel valued and supported. Mr. Smith has a unique gift for bringing U.S. History to life. He doesn’t just teach names and dates—he tells the stories behind the events, encouraging us to think critically about the past and understand its relevance to the present. His lessons are engaging, insightful, and often the highlight of our day.
Beyond his exceptional teaching, Mr. Smith is simply one of the kindest, most approachable people you’ll ever meet. He makes time for every student, listens without judgment, and is always ready with words of encouragement. Whether you need help understanding a tough topic or just someone to talk to, Mr. Smith is there. In a world that often overlooks the everyday heroes in the classroom, Mr. Smith stands out as someone who goes above and beyond—not for recognition, but because he truly cares. His impact reaches far beyond the walls of his classroom, and I can say with confidence that he has made a lasting difference in the lives of his students.
He exemplifies the qualities celebrated by the Red Stick Mom’s Teacher of the Year award through unwavering dedication to student success and innovative teaching methods. This educator consistently goes above and beyond, creating engaging lessons that make historical events resonate with students, fostering critical thinking and a deep appreciation for the subject matter. His holistic approach ensures that students not only excel academically but also grow personally, embodying the spirit of excellence that the Red Stick Mom’s Teacher of the Year award seeks to honor.
Lori Everett – Parkview Baptist School in East Baton Rouge
{Nominated by :: Casey Broussard} I am honored to nominate Mrs. Everett for the 2025 Red Stick Mom Teacher of the Year. She is everything a parent could hope for in a teacher—kind, loving, observant, prayerful, patient, and full of joy. My daughter, Aniston, is in TK this year, and thanks to Mrs. Everett, she absolutely loves going to school. In fact, she asks to go and is always eager to get there in a hurry. That level of excitement from a young child speaks volumes about the environment Mrs. Everett has created.
Mrs. Everett goes above and beyond to ensure her students not only succeed academically, but also feel safe, loved, and understood. Her classroom is more than just a place for learning—it’s a joyful space where little hearts and minds are nurtured with care. She manages to meet each child where they are, giving them what they need both educationally and emotionally. And somehow, even while balancing her role as a mother to two young children of her own, she continues to pour life and love into every student in her care.
What makes Mrs. Everett truly exceptional is how intentional she is with every child. She sees each one as an individual, with unique needs, talents, and potential. She doesn’t just teach them—she helps mold their character, encourages kindness, builds their confidence, and supports them in becoming the best little humans they can be.
I firmly believe that my child would not feel as loved, seen, and happy at school without Mrs. Everett. Her presence has made such a positive impact on our family, and I know so many others feel the same. It takes a special person to do what she does, and she does it all with grace, passion, and unwavering dedication. Mrs. Everett embodies what it means to be an outstanding educator, and I can’t think of anyone more deserving of this recognition.
Kathleen (Katy) Ullrich – Liberty Magnet High School, East Baton Rouge Parish School System
{Nominated by :: Amanda Fandal} Ms. Ullrich is an outstanding educator at Liberty Magnet High School, where she serves as a Computer Science teacher and STEM Department Chair. Her passion, leadership, and unwavering commitment to her students and community make her one of the most impactful teachers in Baton Rouge. Katy is the 2024 Baton Rouge Area Chamber Outstanding Educator Award recipient and a 2025 State Finalist for the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching. She was Liberty’s 2023 Teacher of the Year, 2023 STEM Teacher of the Month, and received an honorable mention for the 2023–2024 CSTA/Infosys Foundation USA Computer Science Teaching Excellence Award.
In the classroom, Katy creates a dynamic and inclusive learning environment that empowers students—especially young women—to see themselves as future STEM leaders. Her instruction goes beyond programming skills; she fosters confidence, collaboration, and curiosity. Under her leadership, Liberty has twice earned the College Board AP Computer Science Female Diversity Award (2021 & 2023), recognizing her success in expanding access and opportunity in computer science education.
Katy’s impact extends well beyond the classroom. She advises Liberty’s Computer Science Honor Society and Girls Who Code, mentoring students as they grow into thoughtful leaders and problem-solvers. She also organizes field trips where her high school students visit local elementary and middle schools to teach younger children the basics of coding. These trips empower Liberty students while sparking early interest in STEM fields for the next generation. She further broadens her students’ horizons by taking them to STEM expos, tech conferences, and innovation showcases. These experiences offer real-world exposure to future careers and deepen students’ understanding of how their skills apply outside the classroom. Through every trip and activity, Katy reminds her students that their voices, ideas, and talents matter.
What makes Katy truly exceptional is her ability to lead with both heart and innovation. She’s a model for her peers, a mentor to young women in STEM, and a fierce advocate for equity and access in education. Her work is shaping not just students, but the future of STEM in our region. Thank you for considering Ms. Katy Ullrich for this well-deserved honor. She represents the very best of what it means to be a teacher—and she inspires everyone around her to reach higher.
Kari Smith – Live Oak Middle, Livingston Parish School District
{Nominated by :: Karen Miller} Kari Smith has dedicated over 11 years to teaching, pouring her heart into every lesson. She makes learning engaging and fun and always goes the extra mile to ensure each student feels seen and special. Whether she’s planning creative challenges for the annual Math Quiz Bowl, organizing an unforgettable field trip to an LSU Women’s Basketball game or incorporating games to keep students engaged, she constantly finds new ways to make education memorable and fun. Ms. Smith is the first to volunteer for after-hours events and often uses her own funds to provide supplies and prizes for her students.
In 2024, she took her passion for education even further by returning to school to earn a master’s degree in educational leadership, all while continuing to teach full-time. Her dedication doesn’t stop at the classroom; a few years ago, she also served as a foster parent, stepping in when she saw a need in her community. Ms. Smith’s selflessness and unwavering commitment to her students make her truly deserving of this recognition. Winning this giveaway would be an incredible encouragement to her and a well-earned acknowledgment of the impact she makes every day.
Ge’Lisa Thompson-Patin – Plaquemine Senior High School, Iberville Parish School district
{Nominated by :: Shani Johnson & Romyah Mitchell} I think my teacher should win Red Stick Mom’s Teacher of the Year because she honestly does everything for her students. She’s one of the most supportive, caring, and hardworking teachers I’ve ever had. She doesn’t just teach us—she really tries to get to know us and make sure we’re okay in and out of the classroom.
She’s also our Beta sponsor and cheer coach, and even with all that on her plate, her two kids, and two other jobs, she always shows up for us. She stays late, helps us with anything we need, and pushes us to be better leaders, students, and people. Being in Beta has taught me how to serve others and take pride in what I do. When I’m having a bad day, she notices. When we do something great, she celebrates with us. And when we mess up, she holds us accountable but never tears us down. She’s the kind of teacher who makes you want to do better because you know she believes in you.
I believe my teacher deserves to win Red Stick Mom’s Teacher of the Year because she’s more than just a teacher—she’s a role model, mentor, and someone who truly cares about every student she works with. She goes above and beyond every single day to make sure we feel supported, encouraged, and valued.
She’s not just present in the classroom—she’s also our Senior Beta sponsor and our cheer coach, and she gives her all to both roles. Through Beta, she teaches us how to be leaders and serve our community, but she also lets us lead and take charge, which builds our confidence. As a cheer coach, she pushes us to be our best while also making sure we’re taking care of ourselves mentally and emotionally. She checks in on us, celebrates us, and holds us accountable in the most loving way.
What makes her different is how deeply she connects with us. She listens. She notices when something is off. She doesn’t just teach—she inspires. And she reminds us constantly that we’re capable of great things. I don’t know many teachers who show up for their students the way she does, and I know I’m not the only one who feels this way. She’s made a huge difference in my life, and I truly think she deserves to be recognized for the way she pours into all of us.
Codi Ross – Most Blessed Sacrament Catholic School, Catholic Diocese of Baton Rouge
{Nominated by :: Kristin Medus} Ms. Codi is more than just a teacher. She is a nurturing guide, a second mother, and a constant source of support for all of her Pre-K students. She is there to help them navigate the first experiences of independence and the school environment. She wipes away tears, calms anxieties, and encourages every small step of growth. The way she responds to each child’s needs is filled with warmth and understanding, giving them the confidence to face challenges, big or small. In her classroom, she creates a safe space where children feel valued and understood. Her ability to build strong, trusting relationships with her students allows them to flourish academically and socially, laying a solid foundation for their future education. She is an exceptional role model to her students, teaching them kindness, respect, and perseverance. Every day, she models how to solve problems, communicate effectively, and work together as a team – building life-long skills in her students. Ms. Codi is more than just an exceptional teachers, she is an irreplaceable part of her students’ lives.
Alisha Butler – Louisiana School for the Visually Impaired
{Nominated by :: Multiple Parents, Students & CoWorkers} I am writing to wholeheartedly recommend Alisha for the Red Stick Mom Teacher of the Year award. As both a friend and colleague, I have had the privilege of witnessing her exceptional dedication and multifaceted contributions to our educational community. Alisha is a remarkable educator and mother who seamlessly balances her numerous roles at school. Her commitment to fostering an engaging and effective learning environment is evident in her guidance of fellow educators. She is a beacon of best practices, ensuring that classrooms are vibrant spaces where student learning and engagement thrive.
In addition to her regular teaching duties, Alisha plays a pivotal role in planning and leading the summer school program. Her dedication to continuous improvement is further demonstrated by her pursuit of a master’s program in TVI certification, specializing in teaching visually impaired students. This commitment underscores her passion for inclusivity and advocacy, particularly for the blind community.
Her contributions extend beyond the classroom. Alisha teaches dual enrollment English courses at Southeastern Louisiana University, where her classes consistently achieve some of the highest averages in the program. Her ability to coordinate K-12 testing for the state, step in to teach a geometry class amidst a teacher shortage, and actively participate in teacher recruitment efforts showcases her versatility and leadership.
Moreover, Alisha’s advocacy for her students and the blind community is commendable. She actively participates in the National Federation for the Blind state conference and has spoken at the Ed Rising Louisiana state conference, where she shares her insights on teaching blind students.
Looking ahead, I am confident that receiving the Red Stick Mom Teacher of the Year award will further empower Alisha to continue her outstanding work and inspire others in the educational field. Her unwavering dedication and passion for teaching make her a deserving candidate for this honor. Thank you for considering this exceptional educator for the award. I am certain that Alisha will continue to make a profound impact on her students and the broader educational community.
Not only will the winner be crowned the 2025 Red Stick Mom Teacher of the Year, but s/he will also win the fabulous prize package giveaway valued at $1,460+ including:
- Credit of $500 to be used on any session from Morgan Leigh Photography {value of $500}
- A premium room for up to two guests at Higgins Hotel, including overnight parking {value of $400}
- One week of summer camp from Kidcam {value of $200}
- 4 movie tickets, including one share combo and two kids combos, and two $25 arcade cards from Celebrity Theatres {value of $125}
- Two day passes (admit for four) and gear from Uptown Climbing {value of $100 value}
- Amanda cuff from Mimosa {value of $89}
- One kid’s haircut with 2 products of choice from Pigtails & Crewcuts {value of $50}
The fine print (please read in full before entering) :: Per the IRS guidelines, the winner will receive a Form 1099 from Red Stick Mom for tax purposes since the value of the giveaway package exceeds a value of $600.
I sure wish we could vote! Hoskins at BRCVPA is my choice! Congrats to all the teachers nominated