Today’s #SundaySpotlight is the first of Black History Month, where we’ll be featuring individuals within our district for their commitment to community service and advancing educational opportunities for the children of Lafourche Parish. Today the Lafourche Schools Spotlight shines brightly on Gregory Cook.
Gregory is the director of Child Welfare and Attendance and former principal of West Thibodaux Middle School. In his current role, he is the primary administrator responsible for ensuring students are in school, safe, and following the district's behavioral standards. He serves as the bridge between the school system, the home, and the legal/court system to resolve issues that prevent children from receiving an education.
He is a 1990 graduate of Thibodaux High School and 1995 graduate of Nicholls State University with a Bachelor of Arts in government. He received his alternative baccalaureate certification in special education from NSU in 2002 and earned a Master of Education in educational leadership in 2009.
Gregory has been with the Lafourche Parish School District for 16 of his 29½ years in education. He was honored as the district Principal of the Year for the 2020-2021 school year and was subsequently named a semifinalist at the state level. He was a member of the Leadership Lafourche Class of 2023.
“Mr. Cook lives a selfless, servant leadership not only at work but also in our community and the surrounding areas, beginning long before his role as LPSD Child Welfare and Attendance Director,” said Norman Edmonds, Jr., LPSD Hearing Officer. “His heart for people, especially children, has been evidenced in his every interaction with families, spanning from his time as a dedicated special education teacher and a winning basketball coach honored by the LHSAA to a transformational principal recognized by the LDOE.”
“In addition to working as a positive contributor and officer in several professional and social organizations, he mentors educators and colleagues as well as volunteers to countless worthy causes,” Edmonds added. “Beyond his local charitable efforts, he is an avid Nicholls State University supporter who takes the ultimate pride in being a beloved husband, son, and friend.”
Gregory says he enjoys working with a group of people who believe in the potential of children and his daily interactions with students, families and the community are guided by one simple question: “How do you treat those who can do nothing for you?”
“This question is posted in my office,” he said. “It reminds anyone who enters that everyone should be treated with respect, regardless of their position or status.”
Please join us in thanking Gregory for his dedicated service to the Lafourche Parish School District and for the vital role he plays in student advocacy, ensuring that all children in the parish are in school and supported in a safe environment.
#lpsdproud #SchoolSuperstar