Tyren Austin named a La. Student of the Year finalist

Tyren Austin, an eighth grader at B. Edward Boudreaux Middle School in Franklin has been named one of 24 finalists by the Louisiana Department of Education in its Louisiana Students of the Year competition.
St. Mary Parish Public Schools stated in a news release, “Tyren Austin, a phenomenal eighth-grade student at B. Edward Boudreaux Middle School, has been selected as one of only eight middle school students as a finalist for Louisiana Middle School Student of the Year.”
He is the son of Damier and Tekesha Austin. At school, he is a Principal’s List student, Gifted and Talented student, and student athlete. He is a member of the Boys to Men organization, BETA Club, Talent Search, Del-Kaps, Insight and 4-H.
He is a West St. Mary Health Ambassador and a first-chair musician in Honor Band. He loves playing community travel ball.
“St. Mary Parish Public Schools is proud to have Tyren represent our community,” the news release stated. “Let us cheer him on, as he continues to make waves, inspire others and secure the title of Louisiana Middle School Student of the Year.”
Honorees include a fifth, eighth and 12th grader from each of the state’s eight BESE regions. Finalists will convene April 10 at the River Center Branch Library in Baton Rouge for an awards ceremony and the announcement of the Louisiana Students of the Year winners from each grade.
“Congratulations to each of these young leaders. This honor is a testament to their commitment to academic excellence,” said Louisiana State Superintendent of Education Dr. Cade Brumley. “As we celebrate the achievement of these remarkable students, we also recognize the unwavering support of their parents and educators.”
Students are selected based on criteria that measure academic achievement, leadership skills, character and service to their schools and communities. Regional selection committees also use electronic portfolios of accomplishments, along with student writing samples and interviews to assess the communications and critical thinking skills of each candidate.
Finalists were selected among student of the year winners from schools across the state. All Louisiana schools were eligible to submit one candidate. Students compete with their peers at the school system level and may advance to the zone and regional competitions.
Prior to selecting the three state winners, the state selection committee will conduct interviews and review a writing sample from each of the finalists as well as their portfolios.