For Kendra Barnett, a career in education is a continuation of a family legacy.
Barnett, a STEM teacher at Albert Cammon Middle School, was inspired to become an educator by her mother and aunt, who integrated Nicholls State University during a pivotal time in history. Both went on to become educators and dedicated more than 30 years to serving students.
“Their commitment to education, perseverance, and belief in making a difference left a lasting impression on me,” Barnett said. “Their example taught me that education changes lives, and I wanted to continue that legacy by helping students discover their own potential.”
Her late father, Robert Smith, also dedicated more than 30 years to St. Charles Parish Public Schools as a school bus driver.
“Although his role was different, he understood that every person in a school system contributes to the success and well-being of students,” Barnett said. “Watching all three of them serve our community with dedication, resilience, and compassion inspired me to pursue a career in education.”
Now entering her 22nd year in education, Barnett has spent the past nine years teaching at Albert Cammon Middle School. She began her career in St. John the Baptist Parish, where she taught for 13 years before returning home to St. Charles Parish.
Barnett is a 1997 graduate of Hahnville High School. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in communication from the University of New Orleans and completed her teaching certification through Southern University. She later earned two master’s degrees from the University of Phoenix – one in curriculum and instruction with a technology specialization and another in administration and supervision.
In addition to teaching STEM, Barnett serves as the volleyball coach at Albert Cammon Middle School and previously coached basketball.
She said the most rewarding part of her job is watching students gain confidence in themselves.
“I love seeing students who may initially doubt their abilities realize they can overcome challenges through perseverance and hard work,” she said.
Barnett said she works to create a classroom where students feel valued, supported and safe to take risks. Her students demonstrate what they have learned through engineering challenges, presentations, prototypes and technology-based projects.
“I encourage creativity, celebrate growth, and remind students that mistakes are simply part of the learning process,” she said. “Building relationships and helping students believe in themselves is just as important to me as teaching the curriculum.”
Barnett said middle school is an exciting time because students are beginning to discover who they are and who they want to become.
“I love challenging them to think critically, solve problems, and become resilient learners,” she said. “Some of the greatest growth happens during these years, and it is rewarding to watch students become more confident, independent and willing to take on challenges they once thought were impossible.”
Last year, Barnett was named Albert Cammon Middle School’s Teacher of the Year.
“That recognition affirmed my commitment to creating innovative, student-centered learning experiences and continuously striving for excellence,” she said.
Barnett is also proud of her work beyond the classroom, including providing technology-focused professional development for fellow educators and serving as a resource for teachers who want to incorporate technology into their instruction.
But she said her greatest accomplishment is the impact she has had on her students.
“Watching them grow academically, gain confidence, and believe in themselves is the most meaningful reward I could ever receive,” she said.
