Comeback Campus(es): Indian Bayou, Leblanc and Seventh Ward earn distinctions from state

Hard work continues to pay off as three more schools in Vermilion Parish have earned the right to call themselves a Comeback Campus.
The Louisiana Department of Education recently recognized Indian Bayou Elementary, Leblanc Elementary and Seventh Ward Elementary.
“Congratulations to Indian Bayou Elementary, Leblanc Elementary and Seventh Ward Elementary who were distinguished for being a Comeback Campus,” Vermilion Parish Superintendent Tommy Byler said.
The three schools are recognized for increasing the number of students who scored Mastery or Advanced in ELA or Math on statewide assessments compared to pre-pandemic 2019 scores. Rene Rost Middle School received the designation last year.
“Such growth requires a tremendous amount of hard work and dedication from all teachers, students, and parents,” Byler said.
Indian Bayou Principal Tara Frick said this means a great deal to the school community.
“I am very proud of IBES for earning this distinction!” Frick exclaimed. “For the school, this recognition means that we are continuing a legacy of excellence here at Indian Bayou Elementary. The hard work and dedication of our teachers, students, staff, and central office personnel contribute daily to our school success. I also know that we could not maintain excellence without the constant parental and community support that we have.
“All of these stakeholders contribute to the continual improvement and growth of our students!”
For Leblanc Elementary Principal Rachelle Brown, this is an honor, and a pleasant surprise.
“We are thrilled about being named a Comeback Campus!” she exclaimed. “The growth that we experienced in mathematics exceeded our expectations, and we are very proud of this accomplishment.”
Brown knows exactly how this was accomplished.
“We received this designation,” Brown said, “because of an incredible commitment from our teachers and staff, hard work from our students, a partnership with our parents and guardians, and support from our central office personnel. It means so much to us to be recognized in this manner. It is quite an achievement!”
Seventh Ward Elementary Principal Marlene K. Primeaux showered similar praise on everyone who makes up her school.
“Seventh Ward Elementary students, teachers, administrators, and parents displayed enthusiastic dedication to student learning and instruction every single day throughout the year,” Primeaux said. “Despite the setback of COVID and weather related closures, there was a consistent joint effort to increase student learning and close the wide academic gaps identified. The success was significant and recognized by the Louisiana Department of Education. As Principal, I was thrilled that Seventh Ward Elementary was being recognized at the state level because of the increase in student achievement over the previous year.
“This award could not be earned without the hard work and dedication of our teachers, students and parents. I am honored to be part of such a wonderful school and community.”