Students honored for improved attendance, grades

Caddo Parish Juvenile Court was the setting Thursday, December 18, 2025, for a deserved pat-on-the-back for four students whose improved attendance and grades earned praise from court officials.

Three students, accompanied by family members, were present to pose for photos and accept gift cards. They were introduced by court staffers who have been helping them through challenges facing many area students. These were LaDerrick Collins, an 11th-grader (junior) at Woodlawn High School, introduced by Elicia Bennett; Cherish Carter, a seventh-grade student at Caddo Middle Career & Technology, introduced by Richard Strickland; and Bella Faust, a 9-year-old fifth-grader at Shreve Island Elementary, introduced by Kate Corbin. Corbin also related the scholastic progress of 17-year-old Terrance Wise, pursuing his HiSet (similar to a GED), who was unable to attend in person.

Caddo Parish District Attorney James E. Stewart Sr. and Juvenile Court Judge Natalie Howell offered words of encouragement to the young scholars.

DA Stewart said Christmas, a season of joy, is an apt time to share the example of the young scholars.

"We should be joyful that these young people have taken positive steps," he said. "They have a lot in front of them. We just give them a push and a little help. I want them to continue that road forward." 

Judge Howell agreed. 

"I just couldn't be prouder of each of you," she said, noting the improvement the students have made in attendance and grades. "I try to encourage you because you all are worth it. It doesn't matter where you begin; you just have to show up. More than half the battle is showing up. And once you are there, it will get better. It will get easier. You are examples of that. Don't ever give up. Keep working hard, keep pushing forward." 

Wilbert Pryor, special assistant to DA Stewart, said it is usually student athletes who get headlines. 

"They constantly get awards and accolades," he said. "We thought it was time we should recognize the students that were once at risk and (who) turned it around."