Harlan Kirgan
Eunice educator Karen Olivier was honored as St. Landry Parish High School Principal of the Year during ceremonies at the School Board’s meeting Thursday in Opelousas.
Olivier has been principal of the Magnet Academy for Cultural Arts in Opelousas since 2012. Prior to that was the school’s assistant principal since 2011.
The school opened in 2005 as part of a court-ordered desegregation plan for St. Landry Parish public schools.
For the past two years MACA has earned an A in the state’s accountability program and posted growth in both years. The also is the only A school in St. Landry Parish.
Olivier, who was surrounded by seniors from the school when she spoke, said, “There is a misconception about MACA and I want to clarify that. So many people think that because we have talented students that our students don’t have to try to make the grade. That they are automatically smart. Our students can perform. They are great ... but have to apply themselves to get the grades. it doesn’t come easy for them.”
Olivier said, “It took six years to get to where we are today.”
Olivier ended by recognizing her father, J.W. McManus, who was in attendance.
“I want to share the fact that there is my inspiration. He is the greatest leader I have known and I have looked up to him all of my life and he is the reason why I am. the way I am,” she said.
McManus is retired Louisiana State Police captain.
Olivier taught for math at Eunice High School for 13 years, was a GED instructor at Eunice Vocational School and for 13 years before MACA taught in various Opelousas schools, she said.
Other principals recognized were Kellie Rabalais, Palmetto Elementary; and Ramica Robinson, Krotz Springs elementary.
Teachers of the Year named were Breanna Prudhomme, Elemetnary Teacher of the Year, Park Vista Elementary; Shonia Pipes Bates, Middle School Teacher of the Year, Park Vista Elementary; and Kayla Bernard-Powell, High School Teacher of the Year, Opelousas High School.