News Summary
Julie Edwards, a beloved teacher at Parkway High School, announces her retirement after an impactful 40-year career shaping students’ lives.
Bossier City, LA – Parkway High School teacher Julie Edwards is set to retire after an impressive 40-year career at her alma mater, having profoundly impacted generations of students. Her last day will be on May 20, 2025.
Edwards began her teaching journey at Parkway High School in 1984. Over the years, she has dedicated herself not only to teaching but also to developing innovative programs and initiatives that engage students in unique ways. Edwards noted that she has spent a total of 44 years at Parkway, counting her years as a student in addition to her teaching career.
Her influence stretches across multiple generations. Sophomore Katie Lynn Rogers shared that Edwards has impacted her entire family, highlighting how her legacy resonates throughout the years with various students. The bond between Edwards and her students is further emphasized by the importance she placed on parental support, which she regarded as a cornerstone of successful education.
Edwards initially began her career teaching speech but later transitioned to English and study skills. In 1989, she developed her own curriculum for a broadcasting class after a year of teaching speech. Recognizing the need for student engagement in media, she founded the Parkway KPAW live broadcast program, where students deliver news and discuss pop culture while working in a state-of-the-art production room designed like a professional news studio.
Aside from her role in broadcasting, Edwards directed over 70 plays and was involved in the mock presidential elections at Parkway. Additionally, she served as the sponsor for the Black Cat Revue dance line for nine years, during which the group won Grand National Championships on two occasions. Edwards also published a magazine titled Dimensions for a decade, further showcasing her commitment to student creativity.
Her dedication extended beyond the classroom; Edwards was well-known for organizing trips to Disney World and Universal Studios for her students, creating unforgettable experiences outside of academic life. In recognition of her hard work and commitment, she was honored as a Bossier Parish Schools Gold Star recipient, with the announcement made during a live KPAW broadcast, which moved her emotionally.
Parents and students alike have praised Edwards for her compassionate nature and her dedication to ensuring student success. Parent Cheryl Kitchings commended Edwards’ ability to connect with and inspire students throughout her career, while former student Courtney Smith will take over Edwards’ broadcasting and technical theater classes when she retires, ensuring that her legacy continues.
Parkway Superintendent Jason Rowland described Edwards as a “legend” and a pillar of the Parkway community, illustrating the high regard in which she is held. Reflecting on her time at Parkway, Edwards emphasized the invaluable lessons of patience that she has learned from her students.
Post-retirement, Edwards plans to support local theaters, such as the Shreveport Little Theatre and the Emmett Hook Center, by working as a lighting designer. She aims to maintain her connections with former students while continuing to offer guidance and support in their creative endeavors and careers.
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Additional Resources
- Shreveport-Bossier Advocate: Parkway High School – Julie Edwards
- Wikipedia: Education in the United States
- KSLA: 9 to 5 Theatre Production Featuring Dolly Parton Lyrics
- Google Search: Parkway High School Bossier City
- Be Bossier: Lovin’ My Job in Bossier – Julie Edwards
- Google Scholar: Educational Impact of Teachers
- LA Illuminator: Gov. Edwards Vetoes Projects for House Conservatives
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Theater
- Be Bossier: KPAW News Production Gives Media Experience
- Google News: Local Theater in Bossier City
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