Bossier Schools commemorated a year of excellence at its annual celebratory banquet that concluded with the presentation of the Bettye McCauley Spirit of Excellence Award to Dr. Vicki Younger, Director of Special Education.
Superintendent Jason Rowland chose Younger, a 31-year educator, for her work in one of the district’s most complex departments and commended her visionary leadership and career-long commitment to student success.
Currently in her second year at the helm of Special Education, Younger has been credited with a total transformation of the department’s organizational culture. By leaning into the unique strengths of her staff and implementing initiative-driven systems, she has created a more efficient, successful environment for both educators and students.
The award serves as a living tribute to its namesake, Bettye McCauley, who retired after more than 50 years of service. Beginning her journey as a fifth-grade teacher in 1967 at Plantation Park during the era of integration, McCauley rose through the ranks to serve as a principal and eventually as the Director of Student Services. Her tenure remains the longest in the history of the district.
The perpetual plaque honoring Dr. Younger and past recipients hangs outside the former office of McCauley at the Bossier Parish School Board in Benton, serving as a daily reminder of the dedication that defines the district’s mission.