- For the first time in Vermilion Parish, a childhood educator has become a finalist for the early childhood leader of the year award.
- The Louisiana Department of Education released the names of 67 state educators who are one step closer to being chosen for the award.
- Abbeville Childhood Educator Tiffany Comeaux is among the finalists.
Abbeville, La. - Every year, the Louisiana Department of Education honors the state’s most exceptional educators and this year, one of Vermilion Parish’s very own teachers made the list.
Tiffany Comeaux-Simon has been an educator at United Way of Acadiana for 11 years. “When the kids walk in the door in the morning, it gives me another reason to go in. It gives me another reason as to why I’m doing this,” Comeaux-Simon said.
She is a finalist for the Louisiana Early Childhood Leader of the year award. A first in Vermilion Parish.
“I was sitting at my desk, of course opening up my emails for the day and when I opened the email I saw the words, ‘congratulations’ and I scrolled and was in awe,” she tells KATC.
Director of Programming at United Way of Acadiana Annette Victor told KATC that Comeaux-Simon’s tenacity is the reason why she nominated her.
“She is an advocate for childhood education. I nominated her because of her leadership skills and her organization skills. I kind of knew she was going to get it (the nomination) but to be one of the five finalists for the state of Louisiana is the icing on the cake,” Victor said.
Teachers and staff are not the only ones noticing the difference she’s making in the community. Abbeville Parent Blair Rideaux says she’s grateful for Comeaux-Simon’s help in enrolling her daughter in school.
“I was a young mom, a single parent who enrolled into school and I needed a break once I had my school schedule together. Tiffany not only helped me further my education but my daughter’s education by creating a schedule that works for the both of us,” Rideaux said.
Comeaux-Simon is among 67 educators hand picked by the Louisiana Department of Education. She is recognized for making a profound impact on the lives of students.
Comeaux-Simon has come a long way. Years ago, she was a babysitter, now she has nearly 20 years of experience in the education field. She is looking forward to fostering the next generation of Vermilion Parish students.
“I am excited that I can be a voice for Vermilion Parish. A lot of parents like Blair are like me, I was once a single mom. We want this program to invite families in and if I’m able to use my skills to help a parent or grandparent then it’s an honor,” Comeaux-Simon said.
One thing’s for sure, Comeaux-Simon has a lot of support behind her.
“The Black community definitely needs more role models. I think she deserves this, she does a great job with everyone in the community and for the children that are here in the center. I think she goes above and beyond,” Rideaux said.
