Calcasieu Parish, Louisiana - The Louisiana School for Math, Science, and the Arts welcomed 136 new students during its 43rd annual Matriculation Ceremony on August 29, 2025, with six students representing Calcasieu Parish among the incoming class.
A larger image of the students is available near the end of the article.
The Calcasieu Parish students joining LSMSA include Mia East, Claire Hebert, Cara Jones, Doug Mayberry III, Phoenix Sims, and Riley Snell. These students gained admission through a competitive application process to attend the tuition-free, state-funded residential school designed for academically motivated high achievers.
Classes at the specialized institution began on August 20, marking the start of a new academic year for students who represent 66% of Louisiana's parishes. The incoming group consists of 74 new sophomores, 56 new juniors, and six new seniors.
During the matriculation ceremony, new students joined LSMSA leadership on stage to sign the school's enrollment roster, continuing an annual tradition that officially registers them as school members. Executive Director Dr. Steve Horton formally welcomed the students and their families to the academic community.
"I hope you're discovering what it means to be part of a community where excellence is the norm, where curiosity is contagious, and where your peers challenge and inspire you to be your best self," Horton said during the ceremony.
The keynote address was delivered by LSMSA Associate Lecturer of English Dr. Kristi Pope Key, who drew inspiration from American writers Walt Whitman and Ralph Waldo Emerson to encourage students to remain open to inspiration and community involvement.
"Go forward, seek, work, achieve, and persist. Be aware of your influence on others. Be aware of those who influence you," Key told the assembled students and families. "And be thankful in each case."
The ceremony featured musical performances by the LSMSA Mixed Ensemble, conducted by Instructor of Instrumentals, Composition, and Ensemble Michael Young. Sophie Lee of Bossier Parish and Graci Noel of Vermilion Parish, both members of the Class of 2026, performed the National Anthem. Sofia Anello of St. Tammany Parish, also Class of 2026, sang the school's alma mater.
Senior Class President Anna Weaver of Natchitoches Parish, Class of 2026, delivered the senior class reflection during the ceremony. Following the formal proceedings, students returned home to enjoy their first Extended Weekend of the academic year.
LSMSA operates as Louisiana's premier state-supported residential high school, offering competitive admissions for high-achieving sophomores, juniors, and seniors. As a public institution, the school charges no tuition, and the LSMSA Foundation provides assistance to ensure accessibility for all qualifying students regardless of their financial circumstances.
The school's residential program allows students from across Louisiana to access advanced coursework in mathematics, science, and the arts while living on campus during the academic year. The institution has maintained its reputation as a destination for the state's most academically motivated students since its establishment.
Students admitted to LSMSA typically demonstrate exceptional academic performance and motivation in their home school districts before applying for admission. The competitive nature of the application process reflects the school's commitment to maintaining high academic standards.
The matriculation ceremony represents a significant milestone for incoming students, marking their official entry into the LSMSA community. The tradition of signing the enrollment roster connects new students with decades of previous classes who have participated in the same ceremony.
Following the ceremony, students prepare to engage with the school's rigorous academic program while participating in residential life activities. The combination of advanced coursework and residential community creates a unique educational environment designed to challenge and support high-achieving students.
