Lafourche Education Foundation

The Lafourche Education Foundation (LEF)'s mission is to enhance and support public education in Lafourche Parish by funding innovative programs, providing resources for teachers and students, and fostering community partnerships to improve academic success. Through grants, scholarships, and special initiatives, LEF works to create a brighter future for local students and educators.

The Lafourche Education Foundation (LEF) has made a lasting impact on public education by funding innovative programs, supporting teachers, and providing resources for students. Through the Louisiana King Cake Festival, LEF has raised $180,000 to develop educational programs. Since its inception in 1997, the foundation has awarded 280 grants, totaling $710,000, to support teachers and classrooms across the parish.

LEF prioritizes early childhood literacy through the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, with 957 children currently registered and 1,160 graduates. For the past year, Lafourche Parish has consistently ranked among the top five parishes in Louisiana for new enrollments in the program.

LEF hosts the Celebration of Excellence, an annual event recognizing outstanding educators, students, and community partners who make a significant impact on education in Lafourche Parish. This event highlights achievements in the classroom and honors innovative teaching practices.

Other initiatives include literacy kits provided to classrooms and support for teachers through Amazon wish list purchases. LEF continues to enhance education and provide meaningful educational resources.

Testimonials

The books have been great," said Deanne Ratliff, a mother whose 2-year-old eagerly awaits his monthly book in the mail. They make it a special routine: "he gets excited when we get a book…and we wait until that night to read it."

"Having the funding to enhance learning experiences for my kids is such a blessing. I truly believe that hands-on, interactive, student-led learning is most beneficail and impactful." Hollie Tabor, teacher Bayou Community Academy.