Doll Ann Johnson, Jade Carroll recognized as top in the state by Louisiana Department of Education

The Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE) announced the teachers, principals, and early childhood leaders who are one step closer to being named the state’s overall honorees. The LDOE named semifinalists for Louisiana Teacher and Principal of the Year and finalists for Early Childhood Teacher and Leader of the Year and New Teacher of the Year.

Sterlington High School principal Doll Ann Johnson was named a semifinalist for Louisiana Principal of the Year, and Riverbend Elementary teacher Jade Carroll was named finalist for Louisiana New Teacher of the Year.

“Congratulations to each of these exceptional educators,” said Louisiana State Superintendent of Education Dr. Cade Brumley. “They are helping students succeed academically and demonstrating why Louisiana is becoming a national example of what works in the classroom.”

Mrs. Johnson is in her third year as the Sterlington High principal. Prior to that, she served as assistant principal after serving as teacher and counselor at Sterlington High for 10 years. As a positive role model, Doll Ann encourages her staff and students every day to do and be their best. She embraces the mission of her school, the district, and the community to ensure that students are college and career ready for success in a global community.

Doll Ann earned her Bachelors, Masters, and Plus 30 Degrees all from University of Louisiana Monroe.

Each year, the LDOE, in partnership with Dream Teachers and the Louisiana Association of Principals, recognizes Louisiana’s most exceptional teachers and principals through the Teacher and Principal of the Year programs. These programs celebrate educators who make extraordinary gains with students and serve as models of excellence in their communities.

The Louisiana New Teacher of the Year program, launched in partnership with Dream Teachers, highlights the remarkable contributions of first-year classroom teachers. This award celebrates new educators who are already demonstrating outstanding instructional skills and a commitment to student achievement.
Jade Carroll teaches fifth grade at Riverbend after graduating from ULM with her Bachelor of Arts degree in 2023. She majored in psychology and is now pursuing a Master of Science degree with a major in Applied Behavior Analysis.

Finalists for Louisiana Teacher and Principal of the Year will be announced in May. Overall honorees will be announced for all teacher, principal, and leader awards in July at the 20th Annual Cecil. J. Picard Educator Excellence Gala.