For today’s #SummerSpotlight, the Lafourche Schools Spotlight shines brightly on Brandy Matherne.

Brandy has been with the Lafourche Parish School District for 22½ of her 24 years in education and is the district’s Career Technical Education (CTE) Coordinator, as well as the volleyball coach at Lockport Middle School. She is a graduate of Central Lafourche High School and Nicholls State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Education and a Master of Education in School Counseling.

“Brandy strives to build positive student relationships, whether it is with businesses to implement student apprenticeships and internships, guiding course choices and offerings through counseling, or even as a coach, always promoting the importance of teamwork and building each other up in all aspects of the game,” said Dr. Decina Rodriguez, LPSD Director of Secondary Education. “She uses her years of experience as a high school counselor to guide academic and social decisions that are in the best interest of the child.  We are so grateful that she chooses Lafourche to share her talents and promote positive student experiences through high school and beyond.”

That passion for building connections and putting students first is at the heart of everything Brandy does, and it’s what she says she enjoys most about working with students and colleagues.

“The collaboration with our business community, career technical education faculty, local education institutions, and stakeholders continues to be a highlight in my role,” Brandy shared. “I appreciate the opportunity I get to connect with people both professionally and personally. However, helping students unlock their potential and experience genuine pride in their personal growth is by far the most enjoyable part of my job.”

Brandy’s hands-on approach to unlocking student potential translates into real opportunities for students and has far-reaching impacts throughout the community.

“Brandy is an invaluable asset to our CTE program,” said Jarad Walker, principal of the Lafourche Parish Career Magnet Center. “Her extensive knowledge of career pathways helps ensure that students are matched with opportunities that align with their interests, strengths, and future goals. Brandy consistently puts students first, working tirelessly to provide them with the resources, guidance, and experiences they need to succeed.”

“She has been the backbone of our internship program, cultivating strong partnerships and continually seeking new opportunities to expand the variety of experiences available to students.,” Walker added. “Her dedication positively impacts not only our CMC students, but also the district as a whole. Through her leadership, innovation, and unwavering commitment to student success, Brandy has helped strengthen career readiness efforts across the district and has made a lasting difference in the lives of countless students.”

Thank you, Brandy, for your extraordinary commitment to the students, schools, and business community of Lafourche Parish! By bridging the gap between education and local industry, you are building brighter futures for our youth and strengthening our entire parish. We are so grateful for everything you do!