Parish President for a Day 2025

Published on April 29, 2025

Parish President Jaclyn Hotard proudly welcomed three students for a full day of learning, leadership, and hands-on government experience as “Parish President for a Day”.

Sixth grade students Slade Cambre and Paxton Wheelahan, along with 11th grade student Kye Bourgeois, earned the title through a top bid at the school’s annual fair.

The day began with a swearing-in ceremony at Riverside Academy, followed by breakfast at PJ’s Coffee before heading into a packed itinerary. The students visited the Emergency Operations Center (EOC), the 911 Communications Center, the Parish President's Office, Hemlock Fire Station, and the Woodland Water Treatment Plant — gaining a behind-the-scenes look at how key departments serve the community every day.

They received official access badges and met with department leaders throughout the day. The experience wrapped with lunch and a sweet send off with snowballs before returning to school.

“It’s incredibly rewarding to see young people so engaged in public service and interested in how local government works," said Parish President Hotard. "They are our future leaders.”

Congratulations to Slade, Paxton, and Kye on a day full of curiosity, service, and civic leadership!