
Amanda Austin is a Worthy Educator and a Champion for educators who are at a crossroads and are not afraid to take action to remove barriers that prevent success for everyone.
She is currently the Principal of the Iberville Math, Science, and Arts (MSA) Academy East in St. Gabriel, Louisiana and the 2025 Louisiana Principal of the Year.
The power of long-term professional relationships is a theme that resonates deeply with me, and as we approach February’s celebration of meaningful connections, I can think of no better story to share than the relationship I have maintained with my first principal, Mr. Spikes, and assistant principal, Mrs. Hardy, from Barbe Elementary School in Lake Charles.
When I began my teaching career at Barbe Elementary in 2009, I was eager and full of passion but admittedly inexperienced. It was Mr. Spikes and Mrs. Hardy who nurtured that passion, giving me opportunities to grow, guiding me with wisdom and encouragement, and setting the foundation for the educator I would become. They saw potential in me before I fully saw it in myself. Their leadership was not just about overseeing operations but about investing in their people—an approach that has profoundly influenced how I lead today.
As principal, Mr. Spikes had a calm yet commanding presence. He taught me the importance of vision and clarity in leadership. He modeled what it meant to set high expectations while fostering a supportive environment. Mrs. Hardy, on the other hand, was the heart of our campus. Her ability to build relationships with teachers, students, and families was unmatched. From her, I learned the critical role of empathy in education—understanding that every student and teacher brings a unique story that deserves to be heard.

The experiences they provided me during my early years were pivotal. They encouraged me to step outside of my comfort zone, trusting me with leadership opportunities that built my confidence and skills. Whether it was leading professional development on campus, spearheading new initiatives, or simply navigating the daily challenges of the classroom, they were always there with guidance, constructive feedback, and sometimes just a laugh.
Our relationship didn’t end when I left Barbe Elementary. Over the years, we’ve stayed in touch, exchanging updates, celebrating milestones, and continuing to support one another. When I learned I had been named the 2025 Louisiana Principal of the Year in July of 2024, they were among the first people I called. Sharing that moment with them was deeply meaningful, as it felt like coming full circle. I am who I am today because of the foundation they laid, the belief they instilled in me, and the mentorship they continue to provide.
Their unwavering support is a testament to the power of long-term professional relationships. In a world where interactions can often feel transactional or fleeting, the connections we nurture over time bring the greatest value. Mr. Spikes and Mrs. Hardy are more than former colleagues—they are lifelong mentors who exemplify the impact of investing in others. As I reflect on my journey, I’m reminded that true success is never achieved alone; it is built through the relationships that inspire, challenge, and sustain us.
This February, I encourage everyone to reflect on their own professional relationships that have shaped their paths. Let us celebrate those connections that go beyond the surface—the ones rooted in trust, growth, and genuine care. For me, those bonds will always include Mr. Spikes and Mrs. Hardy, whose influence will forever be a part of my story.

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