Teachers Justin Templet and David Bellard Recognized for Academic Excellence

Talk about a dynamic duo.  Recently, two educators from Chalmette High School, Justin Templet and David Bellard,  were honored for their commitment, innovation and dedication to their high school students and school community.

Templet, the 2023 Louisiana High School Teacher of the Year and an English teacher at CHS,  was honored as a Public Interest Fellow during last week’s Board of Elementary and Secondary Education meeting at the Louisiana Department of Education.

Included in his fellowship recognition is $50,000 to fund a new school initiative - the O.W.L. Lab, a designated writing center on Chalmette High’s campus available to all students who wish to increase their fluency in writing for academic, professional, and personal fulfillment and success.

Also earning kudos was the 2022-2023 St. Bernard Parish High School Teacher of the Year, David Bellard, who was recognized by the LaMissTenn District of Kiwanis International as its regional Teacher of the Year! In addition to his excellent work in the classroom, Bellard also serves as the school’s Posse Scholarship Coordinator. Over the last several years, his efforts have helped 24 CHS graduates receive over $5M in Posse Scholarships to attend prestigious universities across the country including Tulane, Notre Dame, Villanova,  Bard, Case Western Reserve University and Illinois Wesleyan University.

The LaMissTenn District of Kiwanis International comprises over 120 Kiwanis clubs within the geographic confines of Louisiana, Mississippi, and West Tennessee and this recognition is truly a reflection on Bellard’s excellence in education and commitment to his students.

Deputy Superintendent Mary Lumetta said these honors are a testament to all the good work that takes place at Chalmette High each day. “Justin and David truly exemplify excellence in education and model each day the commitment and compassion that we provide for all of our students.”