Leigh Gaubert, a St. Charles Parish native, believes that every child deserves someone who believes in them, encourages them and helps them discover their strengths.
“Teaching gives me the opportunity to create a classroom where students feel safe, valued, and excited to learn,” Gaubert said.
Gaubert became a teacher 11 years ago after graduating from Southeastern with a degree in early childhood education. For the past seven years, she has taught at St. Rose Elementary, where she teaches first grade.
“The most rewarding part of teaching is making connections with my students,” she said. “I love to see them grow, not just academically but as people. I love watching them overcome challenges, develop new skills, and realize their own potential. Knowing that I’ve played a small role in their success makes teaching incredibly meaningful.”
Last year, Gaubert was recognized as St. Rose Elementary’s Teacher of the Year.
“While it is an incredible honor, I see it as a reflection of the relationships I’ve built with my students, the support of my colleagues, and my commitment to continually improving my practice,” she said. “It reminds me that the work we do each day truly makes a difference.”
Gaubert said she is most proud that her classroom is a place where students feel safe, supported, challenged and celebrated.
“It’s something I take great pride in,” she said.
She said each day teaching elementary students is filled with curiosity, excitement and growth.
“Young children come to school eager to learn, and it’s incredibly rewarding to be part of the foundation of their educational journey,” she said. “I can teach them not only how to read, write, and solve problems, but also how to be kind, responsible, and confident individuals. It’s also pretty cool to be told, ‘you’re the best teacher ever!’ by six-year-olds on a daily basis.”
Gaubert is a product of St. Charles Parish Public Schools. She said she and her husband are proud to be residents of the parish and to have their children attend the same schools they went to as children. Her children keep her motivated as a teacher, she said.
“I want to be the teacher I hope they have; someone who is passionate, loving, enthusiastic, and will cheer them on every step of the way,” she said.
As the new school year begins, Gaubert said she looks forward to the opportunity to build relationships with a new group of students.
“Each August brings a fresh start, new possibilities, and the chance to make a positive impact on another group of children,” she said. “That excitement is what I look forward to most.”
