An aspiring veterinarian who is learning to speak Japanese; a sports enthusiast and dancer who also performs with the Shreveport Little Theater; and a cheerleader and Red Jacket who has a recording contract and is working in the professional music industry. These are glimpses of the 2024-25 Bossier Parish Students of the Year who will represent the district at the next level of the Louisiana Student of the Year competition.
Bossier Schools Superintendent Jason Rowland led a cadre of well-wishers on an announcement tour to surprise the three students chosen for the esteemed honor. Chosen for their academic excellence, community service and the leadership skills each demonstrates, this is the highest honor bestowed on students at the district level. Meet the 2024-25 Bossier Parish Students of the Year:
Karrington Brown is a fifth grader at Stockwell Place Elementary and the Bossier Parish Elementary Student of the Year. Her interests include singing, church and learning to speak Japanese. Brown is a member of Stockwell’s Honor Choir and co-captain of the cheerleading squad. She is also in the Bossier Parish Talented Arts Program (TAP) in music and theater. Brown has taken a firm stand against bullying and strongly believes “everyone should be treated equally no matter, race, gender or personality.” She hopes to one day become a veterinarian.
Lily Kees is an eighth grade student at Greenacres Middle School and is the Bossier Parish Middle School Student of the Year. Her interests include reading, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, acting and powerlifting. As a female that participates in several male-dominated sports, she hopes to prove girls can do anything. Kees is the captain of the Mustang Prancers Danceline, a member of the TAP Art and Theater Program and she also performs with Shreveport Little Theater. Kees looks forward to possibly pursuing a career in biology, veterinary science or geology.
Kylie Small is a senior at Haughton High School and a leader on her campus and in her community. She is the Vice President of the HHS Student Council, a member of the Varsity Cheer Team, Varsity Softball Team, Red Jackets and TAP Program for Music. Small is passionate about vocal and instrumental music. Her performances have ranged from leading her church’s worship to leading worship in other countries. After creating a Tik Tok account to share her music, Small was contacted by a Nashville talent scouting agency and signed to a recording contract. She now works with professionals across the music industry. After high school graduation, her love for the music industry will take Small to Belmont University in Nashville where she will continue to chase her dreams.
The Louisiana Department of Education will name the 2024-25 State Students of the Year in each category at an awards ceremony in the spring.