Louisiana School for Math, Science, and the Arts welcomed 132 new students during its 42nd Annual Matriculation Ceremony on Aug. 30.
From among more than 200 applicants statewide, 140 students were invited to attend the tuition-free, state-funded residential school for high-achieving, academically motivated students. Students from Natchitoches Parish who are among the new first-year LSMSA students include: Chris Anderson, Arwen Brown, Cameron Brunson, Aidan Carney, Aiden Cooper, Kale Doffitt, Alison Key, Aaron Mayrand, Tony Miller, Brian Morris, Sean Remo, Ana Reynolds-Perez, Vinnie Sayles, Zavion Sowell, Lindsey Stewart, Isaac Young, and Nathaniel Young. The ’24-’25 school year began at LSMSA on Aug. 21.
This group of new students includes 77 new sophomores, 50 new juniors, and five new seniors. Matriculants joined LSMSA leadership onstage to sign the school’s enrollment roster, a tradition that officially enshrines each of their places in the school’s history.
Executive Director Dr. Steve Horton formally welcomed students and their families to LSMSA.
“I hope that you’re becoming aware of what happens when you flex your talents and abilities, when you expand your capacity to study, work, and learn,” said Dr. Horton. “I hope that you already sense what it can mean for you to soar with the eagles.”
The keynote address, delivered by LSMSA Principal Lecturer of Biology Dr. Allison Landry, encouraged new students to remain resilient under pressure and to rely upon their fellow students for support.
“Resilience means rebounding from setbacks and struggles, putting one foot in front of the other and moving forward,” said Dr. Landry.
Processional music was performed by the LSMSA Mixed Ensemble under the leadership of Instructor of Instrumentals, Theory and Composition Michael Young. The National Anthem was sung by Sophie Lee (’26), of Bossier Parish, and the LSMSA alma mater was sung by Elizabeth Porche (’26), of Ascension Parish. The senior class reflection was delivered by Senior Class President Blaise Albarez (’25), of St. Tammany Parish. Following the ceremony, students returned home to enjoy the first Extended Weekend of the academic year.
LSMSA is Louisiana’s preeminent state-supported residential high school with competitive admissions for high-achieving, highly motivated sophomores, juniors, and seniors. As a public school, there is no tuition to attend, and assistance from the LSMSA Foundation ensures that the program is accessible to all qualifying students regardless of financial circumstances. For more information, or to apply for admission to LSMSA, visit http://www.LSMSA.edu.