Brighter Future: A Tangi Schools Podcast

Ann Trappey: A Lifetime of Teaching and Impact

In this episode of Brighter Future, Superintendent Melissa Stilley sits down with Mrs. Ann Trappey, a longtime educator whose impact has reached generations of students across Tangipahoa Parish. Ann shares her journey into education, including a challenging first year that nearly led her to walk away, and how that experience shaped her into the teacher she became. Over the course of her career, she taught in multiple school systems, spent more than 20 years at Kentwood High, and continues to support teachers at the district level. She reflects on the importance of storytelling in the classroom, why social studies matters, and what she calls “teacher pay”—the lasting impact educators see through the lives of their students. This episode is a powerful look at the heart of teaching and the difference one educator can make over a lifetime.

Reach University: From Paraprofessional to Teacher

In this episode of Brighter Future, Superintendent Melissa Stilley sits down with Sharon Spring to discuss how the Reach University partnership is creating a new pathway for aspiring educators in Tangipahoa Parish. Through this program, paraprofessionals have the opportunity to earn a four year degree while continuing to work full time, gaining real classroom experience, contributing to retirement, and doing it all at an affordable cost. As the need for certified teachers continues to grow, programs like Reach are opening doors and providing real solutions for our schools. You will also hear from Nikki Varnado, a Reach graduate and New Teacher of the Year, as she shares her journey from paraprofessional to teacher. Her story is a powerful example of what is possible when opportunity meets determination and support. This episode highlights how Tangipahoa Parish is investing in its people, strengthening classrooms, and creating meaningful pathways for those who feel called to teach.

Ashton Lee: From Tangipahoa to Washington University

In this episode of Brighter Future: A Tangi Schools Podcast, Superintendent Melissa Stilley sits down with Ashton Lee, a proud Tangipahoa Parish graduate whose journey has taken him from Loranger Elementary and Loranger Middle to the IB program at Hammond High, and now to Washington University in St. Louis on a full scholarship. Ashton shares how growing up in Tangipahoa helped shape his goals, how the IB program expanded his perspective, and what it was like navigating high school during both COVID 19 and Hurricane Ida. He reflects on getting involved at a young age, including serving on Superintendent Stilley’s original transition team as an eighth grader and speaking at the district’s first back to school rally. Now double majoring in Political Science and Educational Studies, Ashton is continuing his passion for service through civic engagement. He played a key role in helping launch a Youth Advisory Council in Tangipahoa Parish, creating opportunities for student voices to be heard at both the district and school levels. This conversation is a powerful reminder that leadership does not come from a title. It comes from a willingness to serve, speak up, and take action. Ashton’s story is one that will inspire students, educators, and our entire community to believe in the impact of youth voice and the future it can shape.

Teach Tangi: Investing in the Teachers of Tomorrow

In this episode of Brighter Future, Superintendent Melissa Stilley sits down to talk about Teach Tangi, an initiative designed to help passionate individuals become certified teachers and serve students right here in Tangipahoa Parish. Joining the conversation is Sharon Spring, a former high school math teacher and administrator who now leads teacher certification and the Teach Tangi program for the district. Sharon shares how the program works, why it was created, and how it is helping schools grow and support the next generation of educators. Also joining the discussion is Tracie Booth, a teacher at Hammond Eastside Lower who successfully completed the Teach Tangi program. Tracie shares her personal journey into education and what the program meant for her as she stepped into the classroom. Together, they explore how Teach Tangi is helping Tangipahoa Parish invest in its future by creating opportunities for aspiring teachers and strengthening schools across the district. Tune in to hear how programs like Teach Tangi are helping shape a brighter future for students, educators, and our entire community.

Dr. Caminita: Championing Growth at Ponchatoula High School

In this episode of Brighter Future, we sit down with Dr. Anna Faye Caminita, Principal of Ponchatoula High School and Louisiana’s High School Principal of the Year, honored at the Cecil J. Picard Educator Excellence Awards Gala. Dr. Caminita shares the leadership strategies, school culture improvements, and student-centered initiatives that have helped Ponchatoula High achieve remarkable growth and success. From academic accountability to building strong community partnerships, her passion for students is clear, consistent, and inspiring. Join us for an uplifting conversation that highlights what it means to lead with vision, heart, and unwavering commitment to every child’s future here in Tangipahoa Parish.