LOUISIANA ANNOUNCES 2024 STUDENTS OF THE YEAR

(BATON ROUGE, LA) - The Louisiana Department of Education tonight named the three 2024 Students of the Year and honored all 25 regional finalists. The overall winners-students each from the elementary, middle, and high school grades-were selected based on academic achievement, leadership skills, career and technical achievements, character, and service.

"These young leaders represent what's possible through hard work and a commitment to academic excellence," said Louisiana State Superintendent of Education Dr. Cade Brumley. "Their achievements demonstrate what's possible for every student when given the right educational opportunities."

Elementary School (5th Grade)

Bhavik Reddy Kondala is the elementary school Louisiana Student of the Year winner. He attends Eden Gardens Fundamental Elementary Magnet in Caddo Parish (BESE District 4). Kondala excels both in the classroom and in a variety of sports. He serves as one of the news anchors, writers, and producers of his school's news broadcasts in addition to serving on the safety patrol that assists students at arrival and dismissal times. Outside of school, Kondala is an active member of Cub Scouts and a volunteer at the Hindu Cultural Center in Shreveport where he tutors and assists with food bank tasks. He aspires to become a physician to assist with the health concerns of the community and feels "There are no shortcuts to success…only dedication and hard work."

Middle School (8th Grade)

Madilyn Nichole Whitmore is the middle school Louisiana Student of the Year winner. This bilingual student attends Westdale Middle in East Baton Rouge Parish (BESE District 6) where she excels academically and as a leader in her school student government association, soccer, track, and STEM competition team. Three years ago, concerned for the health of her goldendoodle pet, this young entrepreneur created a successful dog treat business which she continues to operate. Whitmore wants to pursue a career as a biochemist or biomedical engineer after completing studies at either Harvard University, Spelman College, Stanford University or Howard University. She states, "It is the progress, not the perfection that matters."

High School (12th Grade)

Zachary Evans Cryer is the high school Louisiana Student of the Year winner. Cryer attends Benton High in Bossier Parish (BESE District 6). During his school career, he has also been selected as the Louisiana Student of the Year at both the elementary and middle school levels. Cryer has continued to excel throughout his high school years serving as a leader for 4-H, BETA, Student Council, and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. He has demonstrated athletic skills in basketball and track, while maintaining a 4.0 grade point average. His organizational and leadership skills have allowed him to generate funding for various non-profit organizations, and his communication skills have led to positions on the Bossier Teen Court juror, National Youth Conference Leader for 4-H, and Bossier Advisory Council. His guiding principle has been, "A life isn't significant except for its impact on other lives."

The LDOE recognizes that many outstanding students are enrolled in schools throughout the state. To acknowledge these accomplishments, the Department, in conjunction with the Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE), annually honors one incredible fifth, eighth, and twelfth grade student based on their leadership, academic performance, achievements, citizenship, and service to the school and community.